The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has posthumously bestowed the Distinguished Aviation Cross on six airmen who died in the crash of a “Super Huey” helicopter while conducting a humanitarian and disaster response mission in Agusan del Sur on November 4. The mission was underway to aid communities affected by the recent onslaught of Typhoon Tino (international name Kalmaegi) when the fatal accident occurred.
The Distinguished Aviation Cross, a highly respected military decoration, is awarded to military personnel in recognition of acts of heroism or exceptional achievement during aerial operations. The PAF emphasized that the honor was given to acknowledge the airmen’s “extraordinary bravery and selfless service” while carrying out their critical duties amid a national calamity, embodying the highest ideals of the service.
“Their heroism stands as a lasting testament to the PAF’s core values of integrity, service above self, and excellence,” stated PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Christina Basco in a press release issued late Thursday night. The immediate conferment of the award reflects the military’s deep reverence for the ultimate sacrifice made by the crew members in the line of duty to the nation.
Following the formal honoring, the PAF rendered full military honors for all six fallen aircrew upon the arrival of their remains at different military installations across the country on Thursday. The remains of the pilots and four of the airmen were repatriated to military bases nearer to their hometowns, facilitating the final rites and closure for their bereaved families.
The bodies of Capt. Paulie Dumagan, 2nd Lt. Royce Louis Camigla, Sgt. John Christopher Golfo, and Airman First Class Ericson Merico PAF arrived at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City late Thursday night. They were transported aboard a C-130 aircraft from the Davao Air Station and were received by their families, loved ones, and top military officials led by Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura PAF, the Commanding General of the PAF.
Meanwhile, earlier on Thursday, the remains of the two other airmen were transported to military facilities in Mindanao. Sgt. Yves Sijub was flown to Rajah Buayan Air Station in General Santos City aboard an NC-212i aircraft, while Airman Ameer Khaidar Apion was brought home to Edwin Andrews Air Base in Zamboanga City, ensuring their close proximity to their respective hometowns.
Lt. Gen. Cordura and other key military personnel paid tribute to the fallen heroes, honoring their courage and dedication. The PAF acknowledged that the crew’s sacrifice will “forever be remembered,” and vowed that the organization will remain steadfast in upholding the ideals they so valiantly embodied as “Guardians of the Skies and Defenders of the Nation.”