PAF denied allegations they abandoned the crash victims

Cebu City (10 July)--- The Philippine Air Force denied allegations that it abandoned its obligations to the family members of those who died in the Huey helicopter crash in Lapu-Lapu City last April 28.

MAJ GEGENRAL PEDRO IKE INSERTO, of the PAF Tactical Operations Command, said that their office has been in constant coordination with the families of the nine fatalities and had offered whatever livelihood program that may be available for them.

During their special flag ceremony at the Mactan Benito Ebuen Air Base yesterday, the PAF had given two tricycles to Edwin Guinoo and Danilo Olimba who are relatives of the victims.

The PAF also installed four (4) newly enlisted personnel of the family members of the victims namely; Michelle and Cheryl Jumao-as, Erika Nagao and Danilo Olimbao.

In a media interview, the four said that they joined the military force on their free will because they believe in the Air Force and they want to move on with their lives.

Reportedly, some of the family members of the victims filed complaints at the military Ombudsman accusing the PAF of failing to give them the results of the investigation and to deliver the supposed assistance to them.

GEN INSERTO denounced the allegations of victims’ families and their filing of criminal and administrative complaints against some PAF officials. He said that they are ready to face any charges filed by these people. (PIA-7 Cebu/hfg)