A high-ranking official of the Philippine National Police (PNP) died in a tragic plane crash in Washington.
Police Colonel Pergentino Malabed, Jr., head of the PNP Supply Management Division, was on an official trip to inspect security equipment sent to the Philippines.
Malabed, a member of PNPA Class 98, was known for his dedication and diligence in his duties.
According to Lt. Gen. Rhodel Sermonia (Ret), “He was a dedicated public servant, committed to ensuring the safety and security of the Philippines.”
The United Frontliners Partylist expressed condolences to Malabed’s family and called for more comprehensive insurance for uniformed services.
The tragedy has sparked calls for better benefits for the families of fallen service members. “Therefore, at the United Frontliners Partylist, we are pushing in Congress for the enactment of more comprehensive Men in Uniform Insurance,” said Lt. Gen. Sermonia.
The proposed bill aims to provide adequate support to the families of frontliners who died in the line of duty.
The plane crash occurred when American Eagle Flight, carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, collided mid-air with a US Army helicopter over the Potomac River near Reagan Washington National Airport.
The collision resulted in both aircraft plunging into the river, with no survivors reported as of presstime.