AFP identifies remains of 20th victim in C-130 crash

MANILA, Philippines — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) announced yesterday the identification of another cadaver from last Sunday’s C-130 cargo plane crash in Patikul, Sulu.

Airman First Class Fortunate Regidor of the Philippine Air Force is the 20th of 49 fatalities of the ill-fated aircraft to be identified using dental records and forensic examination.

The AFP also finally released yesterday the names of 29 other soldiers who died in the tragedy that is now subject of an investigation.

Those yet to be positively identified include Technical Sergeants Nelson Hadjiri and Salaji Abdurahman; Corporals Alhamin Salahuddin, Dexter Estrada, Gulam Ismael, Reynel Matundin, Jay-ar Obenita, Jemmer Mondido, Jerome Balivado and Philip Dante Camilosa; Segeant Jelson Sadjail and Airman 2nd Class Glen Mar Biscocho.

Also included were Privates First Class Keth Kane Alegarme, Nazer Albaracin, Alzid Hawrani, Benjie Malanog, Lester Al Lagrada, Bensheen Sabaduquia, Carlos Dapanas Jr. and Marchi Bonzales.

Likewise named were Privates Michael Dalore, Joey Loterte, Erwin Canton, Mar Jhun Capagngan, Kevin Damole, Carlos Pargua Jr., Ian Arsuelo, Mansueto Lingatong III and Archie Barba.

The AFP said those killed in action will receive a Command Special Financial Assistance which will include the sum of their base pay, hazard pay and bonuses; funeral service support amounting to P80,000 and monthly pension based on rank and length of service.

Their beneficiaries will also receive support under the Office of the President’s Comprehensive Social Benefits Program which include Special Financial Assistance worth P500,000 and shelter, health, education and employment assistance.

“No amount can ever replace the lives of our brave comrades who paid the ultimate sacrifice in line of their duty to protect our people and the state,” AFP chief Gen. Cirilito Sobejana said.

“Extending financial assistance to their families and loved ones is the least that we can do for the invaluable services they have rendered to our country,” he added.