The Philippine Air Force (PAF) accorded full military honors to the airmen who perished in the tragic crash of a Super Huey helicopter in Agusan del Sur on November 4, 2025, while on a humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) mission in the aftermath of Typhoon Tino.
In solemn ceremonies held across three locations, the remains of the fallen personnel were received by their families, comrades, and top PAF officials.
Sergeant Yves B. Sijub, PAF, was flown aboard an NC-212i aircraft and received at Rajah Buayan Air Station in General Santos City. Airman Ameer Khaidar T. Apion, PAF, was brought home to Edwin Andrews Air Base in Zamboanga City.
Meanwhile, the remains of Captain Paulie B. Dumagan, PAF, Second Lieutenant Royce Louis G. Camigla, PAF, Sergeant John Christopher C. Golfo, PAF, and Airman First Class Ericson R. Merico, PAF, arrived at Colonel Jesus Villamor Air Base in Pasay City aboard a C-130 aircraft on November 6, following their departure from Davao Air Station.
They were received by their bereaved families alongside PAF Commanding General Lieutenant General Arthur M. Cordura, PAF, and other ranking military officers, who paid tribute to the airmen’s courage, patriotism, and unwavering commitment to duty.
In recognition of their gallantry, the fallen airmen were posthumously conferred the Distinguished Aviation Cross—one of the highest honors for military aviators. The award underscores their heroic service and sacrifice while performing critical relief and rescue operations for Filipino communities affected by the typhoon.
The Philippine Air Force expressed its deepest condolences to the families left behind, vowing continued support as the nation mourns the loss of its heroes.
“Their legacy of service above self will forever remain in the hearts of the PAF and the Filipino people. As Guardians of the Skies and Defenders of the Nation, we honor their commitment and the noble ideals they upheld,” the PAF said.
