A solemn send-off ceremony was held in Davao City for six members of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) who died in a helicopter crash in Loreto, Agusan del Sur on November 4, 2025.

Tears filled the Tactical Operations Wing Eastern Mindanao headquarters in Davao City as families and comrades mourned the loss of Sergeant Yves Sijub, one of the six victims from the ill-fated Super Huey helicopter crash.

Using a PAF aircraft, Sijub’s remains were flown to his hometown in General Santos City with full departure honors on Thursday, November 6.

The identities of the other victims were also confirmed through autopsy and forensic examinations.

They were identified as Captain Paulie Dumagan, Second Lieutenant Royce Louis Camigla, both pilots of the aircraft, and crew members Sergeant John Christopher Golfo, Airman First Class Ericson Merico, and Airman Ameer Khaidar Apion.

Apion’s remains were brought home to Zamboanga City while the other four were flown to Manila.

PAF rendered a hero’s send-off ceremony to honor its fallen airmen, recognizing their courage and sacrifice in the line of duty.

“The Philippine Air Force extends its deepest sympathies to the families, friends, and loved ones of the departed. Their heroism, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to duty stand as a lasting testament to the noble ideals of the service. Their legacy will continue to inspire future generations of airmen to serve with the same courage, dedication, and honor in the defense of our people and nation,” PAF said.

PAF said four aircrafts, including the Super Huey, took off for the humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) mission in areas affected by Typhoon Tino on Tuesday, November 4. However, the Super Huey lost communication mid-flight.

Authorities are still investigating the cause of the crash.

The Eastern Mindanao Command assured support and financial assistance for the bereaved families.

“As of this time, di pa kami makapagbigay ng about sa investigation ongoing pa sila, PAF TOW Eastern Mindanao Spokesperson, 2Lt. Eam Pagunsan, said.