04 July, 2021

Lockheed C-130H Hercules aircraft of the Philippine Air Force has crashed

Photo Philippines Army Joint Task Force Handout, Reuters


A  Lockheed C-130H Hercules aircraft of the Philippine Air Force has crashed whilst trying to land at Jolo Airport, with 92 people onboard. 

The aircraft was transporting many new recruits that had just graduated from basic training and were being deployed to the island to become part of a special joint task force to fight against terrorist activity in the region. 

The plane was trying to land on Jolo island in Sulu province when the incident happened at 11:30 am local time (0330 GMT), said General Cirilito Sobejana.  "While transporting our troops from Cagayan de Oro (on the southern island of Mindanao), it missed the runway, trying to regain power but it didn't make it," Sobejana told local media, describing the accident as "very unfortunate".

"Responders are at the site now, we are praying we can save more lives," Sobejana told AFP, who also said that the 40 rescued personnel were being treated at the nearby 11th Infantry Division hospital.

Of the 92 people on the transporter,  there were 3 flight deck crew, 5 other crew members and 84 Philippine Army personnel. According to local reports, 50 of the personnel came from the 4th Infantry Division training unit of Malaybalay, Bukidnon.

A number of people on the ground were caught up in the crash including at least two fatalities, however, this may increase as local media report that some people are missing. 

Photo PAF
An investigation has been started, although it has already been discounted by officials that the aircraft came under some form of attack. The aircraft only arrived at the end of January this year, following a special grant from the United States government.

The aircraft, which came from Tucson, Arizona was welcomed in a simple arrival ceremony in Villamor Air Base, Pasay City that was graced by PAF vice commander Maj. Gen. Florante M. Amano.


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