The aircraft that crashed in Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur was contracted by the US Department of Defense and providing intelligence and surveillance support.

"On February 6, 2025, an aircraft contracted by the U.S. Department of Defense crashed in the Philippine Province of Maguindanao del Sur," according to the statement posted by the US Indo-Pacific Command Public Affairs.

"The aircraft was providing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance support at the request of our Philippine allies. The incident occurred during a routine mission in support of U.S.-Philippine security cooperation activities," the agency said.

There are no survivors and that the four personnel on board included one US military service member and three defense contractors. 

"The names of the crew are being withheld pending next of kin notification," the agency said, adding that an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the crash.

In a statement on Friday, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) said the nationalities of the other fatalities are still being verified.

“CAAP is working closely with local authorities to determine the cause of the incident,” CAAP said.

According to CAAP, the Beechcraft King Air 300 aircraft with registration number N349CA departed from Cebu and was en route to Cotabato City for an aerial survey when it crashed.

In a separate statement, the Philippine National Police (PNP) called on the public to avoid making speculations as it vowed to ensure safety and assistance in connection with the crash.

“We urge the public to refrain from speculating and allow the proper authorities to conduct their investigation,” the PNP said.

“The PNP remains committed to ensuring public safety and assisting in all necessary efforts related to this incident,” it added.

Meanwhile, a foreign military helicopter landed at the crash site on Friday, February 7, to get the dead bodies of the victims.

“Siguro kinuha na rin ng party na nag-recover sa bodies kasi alam naman natin ang black box, isa sa importanteng equipment sa any aircraft investigation. Dito kasi malalaman yung flight patterns ng aircraft at saka communications ng piloto,” Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (PDRRM) Officer, Ameer Jehad Tim Ambalodto, said.

(With reports from Joviland Rita/BAP/KG, GMA Integrated News and Efren Mamac, GMA Regional TV One Mindanao)