Filipino officer among victims of plane collision in US
A Filipino police officer was among those killed in a mid-air collision between a US military helicopter and an American Airlines plane outside Washington, D.C.
Philippine National Police (PNP) information chief Col. Rundulf Tuaño on Friday said Police Col. Pergentino N. Malabed, the chief of the supply management division, has passed away.
He said that Malabed was on official travel at the time of the incident, "fulfilling his duty as a dedicated officer committed to the service of protecting and securing both the PNP and the nation."
"His untimely passing is a profound loss to the PNP, we were served with honor, integrity, and dedication throughout his career. We extend our deepest condolences to his bereaved family, loved ones, and colleagues.
"The PNP is committed to providing them all the necessary support during this whole time. As we grieve this tragic event, we also honor the dedication and sacrifice of Police Col. Malabed. His contributions to the PNP and the nation will never be forgotten. May he rest in peace," he ended.
"The Philippine National Police mourns the tragic loss of Police Col. Pergentino N. Malabed. He is the Chief of the Supply Management Division who was among those onboard the American Airlines flight that collided midair with a US Army Black Hawk helicopter near Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C. and crashed into the Potomac River on Wednesday night,"
An American Airlines jetliner and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter near Reagan National Airport near Washington D.C. killed everyone on both aircraft on the evening of Jan. 29.
American outlets reported that the two aircraft plummeted into the Potomac River. The jetliner carried 60 passengers and four crew members, while the helicopter carried three soldiers. Officials believe there were likely no survivors.