THE TACTICAL Operations Wing Eastern Mindanao held a departure honors ceremony at the Davao Air Station for Pararescue Jumper Sgt. Yves B. Sijub, on Thursday, Nov. 6, to recognize his courage and service to the nation.
Leading the tribute were BGen Romeo Jerome M Dirilo, wing commander, TOWEASTMIN; Col Ryan Reynie P Sonza, deputy wing commander, TOWEASTMIN; and Col Darwin G. Catibog, group commander, TOG XI, in the presence of the bereaved family of the fallen airman.
The ceremony served as a sincere gesture of respect and gratitude to the late airman, whose unwavering commitment and bravery exemplified the finest ideals of military service. His heroism and dedication continue to inspire his comrades and the Filipino people as they honor his memory and lasting legacy.
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has begun rendering departure honors for the six aircrew members who tragically perished in the Super Huey helicopter crash in Loreto, Agusan del Sur, on Nov. 4, 2025, while conducting a humanitarian mission following Typhoon Tino.
The remains of all six airmen were retrieved and transported to Davao City on Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2025, for forensic processing before being sent to their respective families.
Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) spokesperson Lt. Col. Salvacion Evangelista confirmed on Wednesday afternoon that the six cadavers arrived at the Tactical Operations Wing Eastern Mindanao (TOWEASTMIN) in Old Airport, Sasa, at 2:55 p.m.
“The cadavers have arrived in Davao City for autopsy and forensics,” Evangelista stated, noting that the bodies still need to be processed and placed in caskets before the official send-off.
Evangelista also noted a priority for one victim: “Out of the six cadavers, one is Muslim. If identified, that will be the first one to be sent off so they can be immediately brought to the family in Zamboanga in observance of their religious belief.”
The fallen heroes
The Philippine Air Force officially released the identities of the brave airmen who lost their lives while conducting Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) operations:
Pilots: Captain Paulie B. Dumagan and Second Lieutenant Royce Louis G. Camigla
Aircrew: Sergeant Yves B. Sijub; Sergeant John Christopher C. Golfo; Airman First Class Ericson R. Merico; and Airman Ameer Khaidar T. Apion.
The PAF extended its deepest sympathies, stating that the airmen’s “heroism, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to duty stand as a lasting testament to the noble ideals of the service.”
