The Philippine Air Force (PAF) on Thursday identified the six personnel who perished in the helicopter crash in Agusan del Sur while conducting humanitarian operations in areas affected by Typhoon Tino.
In a statement, the Air Force said the fatalities were members of its 505th Search and Rescue Group, who were on board a Super Huey helicopter that went down in the mountains of Loreto, Agusan del Sur on November 4, 2025.
The fallen airmen were identified as pilots Captain Paulie Dumagan and Second Lieutenant Royce Louis Camigla; and aircrew members Sergeant Yves Sijub, Sergeant John Christopher Golfo, Airman First Class Ericson Merico, and Airman Ameer Khaidar Apion.
“The Philippine Air Force extends its deepest sympathies to the families, friends, and loved ones of the departed,” the statement read. “Their heroism, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to duty stand as a lasting testament to the noble ideals of the service.”
The PAF said the team was carrying out humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) missions in the aftermath of Typhoon Tino when the crash occurred. The cause of the incident remains under investigation.
“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,” the Air Force added.
As a result of the crash, the two remaining Huey aircraft in the PAF fleet have been grounded pending the results of the investigation.
Malacañang on Wednesday said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has expressed the nation’s condolences to the families of the six Philippine Air Force personnel who died in a helicopter crash in Agusan Del Sur at the height of Typhoon Tino on Tuesday.
Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said President Marcos extended his condolences and assistance to the families of the nation’s heroes.
“According to the President, he extends his condolences to the families of the fallen heroes of our nation, and all appropriate assistance should be provided to the affected families,” Castro said in a Palace press briefing.
