By Brian Campued
In honor of their sacrifice in the line of duty, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday paid his respects to the fallen aircrew of the Super Huey helicopter that crashed in Agusan del Sur while conducting Rapid Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis (RDANA) operations in the aftermath of Typhoon Tino (international name Kalmaegi).
During a visit to the Philippine Air Force (PAF) Mortuary in Villamor Airbase, Pasay City, Marcos Jr. personally extended his condolences to the bereaved families of pilots Capt. Paulie Dumagan and 2nd Lt. Royce Louis Camigla.
The remains of aircrew Sgt. John Christopher Golfo, Sgt. Yves Sijub, Airman First Class Ericson Merico, and Airman Ameer Khaidar Apion were earlier transported to their respective hometowns.
“We mourn the loss of our brave men of the Philippine Air Force who gave their lives in the line of duty, serving our people and our nation until their final moments. Their courage and selfless service in bringing aid to those in need will never be forgotten,” the President said in a Facebook post.
“On behalf of a grateful nation, we honor their sacrifice and pray for the comfort of their families and loved ones.”
On Thursday, the PAF posthumously awarded the Distinguished Aviation Cross to the six crew members, all belonging to the 505th Search and Rescue Group, for their “extraordinary bravery and selfless service”—embodying their unit’s creed: “So That Others May Live.”
“Their heroism stands as a lasting testament to the PAF’s core values of integrity, service above self, and excellence,” the Air Force said.
-jpv
