MANILA — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday paid tribute to its personnel who died in a helicopter crash while conducting relief operations in northern Mindanao amid the onslaught of Typhoon Tino.
According to the AFP, the Super Huey helicopter was on its way to the coastal city of Butuan to deliver aid when it crashed, killing all six people on board. The fatalities included two pilots and four crew members.
AFP Public Affairs Office chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said the fallen airmen embodied “the highest ideals of service beyond self.”
“We honor the dedication, skill, and courage of our airmen, whose sacrifice reminds us of the profound risks faced by those who serve even in missions of compassion and relief for our fellow Filipinos,” Trinidad said in a statement.
The AFP extended its condolences to the families of the Philippine Air Force personnel. “We share in your grief and extend our unwavering support during this most difficult time,” Trinidad added.
He also said the AFP remains steadfast in supporting ongoing relief efforts and in standing beside the families of the victims, “as we collectively pay tribute to their heroism and selfless service to the nation.”
Meanwhile, Typhoon Tino has dumped more than a month’s worth of rainfall in parts of Southern Leyte and Cebu, inundating entire towns and sweeping away vehicles, trucks, and even large shipping containers in the floodwaters.