Remains of pilots in helicopter crash not yet retrieved

MALOLOS , Philippines– The remains of the pilot and co-pilot of the helicopter that crashed on Aug. 22 as it was bound for the Sumag River diversion project in Gen. Nakar, Quezon have yet to be retrieved.

Reports reaching Senior Superintendent Romeo Caramat Jr., acting Bulacan police director, identified the victims as retired Col. Miguel Logronio and Jay Gregorio.

As of Sunday afternoon, the report said the remains of the victims were seen strapped in the cockpit of the helicopter. Bad weather is preventing retrieval operations.

Two teams of the 48th Infantry Battalion found the crash site in a mountainous area in Sitio Macua, Barangay Kabayunan, Doña Remedios Trinidad in Bulacan.

Earlier reports said the helicopter took off from its hangar in Pasay City and landed at the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System compound in Barangay Bigte, Norzagaray at around 11:20 a.m. for a stopover. The helicopter flew again at around noon to the Sumag River diversion project in Gen. Nakar, Quezon. However, the helicopter lost contact with the Air Transportation Office.