restoration

In the heart of Loreto, Agusan del Sur, the sound of a helicopter usually signals urgency or aid. Last November 2025, however, that sound was accompanied by the weight of a heavy mission. During the critical recovery operations for the fallen heroes of the Super Huey Nr 122 crash, an S70i Blackhawk helicopter utilized the grounds of Kauswagan National High School as a safe landing zone. While the mission was a somber necessity of service, the powerful rotor wash from the heavy-lift aircraft inadvertently damaged the school’s infrastructure, stripping the roofs of the main buildings and four vital learning centers. True to the spirit of the Philippine Air Force—where accountability is as paramount as bravery—the Tactical Operations Group (TOG) 11 did not simply move on. They returned to build.

​            While the rest of the world celebrated personal connections on February 14, 2026, the personnel of TOG 11, alongside dedicated stakeholders and community volunteers, chose a different expression of devotion: the love of country and community. From February 14 to 15, the school grounds buzzed with the sound of hammers and the sight of fresh galvanized iron sheets being hoisted into place. This repair was a massive collaborative effort, made possible by the unwavering support of BWAPISM, Haraya Volunteers International, Kinasang’an Foundation Inc., Monde Nissin Corporation Davao, Rise Against Hunger Philippines, Marino Native Lechon, Aldessa Fitness Hub, Conlu Bread and Pastry Shop, PEJ Construction Services, Cheekees Pansit Canton, Love Young Construction Services, 7^th Air Reserve Center and 60^th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army, whose contributions provided the necessary materials to turn a blueprint into a reality. The spirit of Bayanihan was in full display as selected parents from the PTA, local residents, and even students worked side-by-side with the airmen to restore their sanctuary of learning.

​            During the mission, the Acting Group Commander of TOG 11, MAJ BIANCHIHEIMER L EDRA PAF, noted the significance of the timing, reflecting that the troops and their partners chose to sacrifice their personal time and celebrate Valentine’s Day through sweat and labor instead of leisure. This sacrifice was a testament to the fact that the military’s “service” is not a 9-to-5 job, but a lifelong commitment to the welfare of the people. By choosing to spend these days on a rooftop in Loreto, the troops proved that their promise to the school was not just a courtesy, but a debt of honor that had to be paid.

​            By February 16, 2026, the scars of the previous year’s operations were gone, replaced by a gleaming new facade. An official turn-over ceremony was held, attended by the Acting Group Commander and key stakeholders. The event was a celebration of community spirit that included a distribution of school supplies and feeding activity for the students. The Principal, faculty, and students expressed profound gratitude, feeling a deep sense of pride in TOG 11. For them, the sight of the repaired buildings was proof that the “promise of repair” was true and delivered with integrity.

​            The impact of this activity resonates far beyond the physical structures of Kauswagan National High School. By restoring the four learning centers, TOG 11 ensured that education could continue uninterrupted, rain or shine. More importantly, it healed the narrative of the initial tragedy. The damage was originally linked to a painful military loss, but by returning to fix the school, TOG 11 transformed a reminder of an accident into a symbol of recovery and hope. This activity bridged the gap between the uniform and the classroom, showing the youth of Agusan del Sur that the Philippine Air Force is a dependable partner in nation-building. As the new roofs gleam under the Agusan sun, they stand as a monument to a military that stays long after the rotors stop spinning, ensuring that the future of the community remains protected and bright.