NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Six Air Force Heroes Remembered For Their Final Mission Of Mercy
Photo credit: PAF
The nation mourns the loss of six brave airmen who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving on a humanitarian mission in Agusan del Sur. What began as a rescue mission in the wake of Typhoon Tino ended in tragedy—but their courage and compassion will forever soar above the grief.
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) identified the fallen heroes as Capt. Paulie B. Dumagan, 2nd Lt. Royce Louis, Sgt. Yves Sijub, Sgt. John Christopher Golfo, Airman First Class Ericson Merico, and Airman Ameer Khaidar Apion—all members of the 505th Search and Rescue Group.
They were on a mission to deliver help and hope when their Super Huey helicopter went down on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, amid storm recovery efforts.
In a heartfelt statement, the Air Force paid tribute to its fallen men, saying their lives were marked by compassion, professionalism, and devotion to duty—the very ideals that define the service.
“Their noble sacrifice embodies the enduring creed of the Air Force: ‘So That Others May Live.’ Their courage and commitment will remain a lasting testament to the honor of military service,” the PAF said.
To the families left behind, the Air Force offered its deepest sympathies and unwavering support, assuring them that their loved ones’ legacy of duty and patriotism will live on in every airman who follows.
As the PAF stands in mourning, it also stands resolute—committed to continue the mission that these heroes gave their lives for, with the same integrity, resolve, and selfless spirit they exemplified until their final flight.
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) identified the fallen heroes as Capt. Paulie B. Dumagan, 2nd Lt. Royce Louis, Sgt. Yves Sijub, Sgt. John Christopher Golfo, Airman First Class Ericson Merico, and Airman Ameer Khaidar Apion—all members of the 505th Search and Rescue Group.
They were on a mission to deliver help and hope when their Super Huey helicopter went down on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, amid storm recovery efforts.
In a heartfelt statement, the Air Force paid tribute to its fallen men, saying their lives were marked by compassion, professionalism, and devotion to duty—the very ideals that define the service.
“Their noble sacrifice embodies the enduring creed of the Air Force: ‘So That Others May Live.’ Their courage and commitment will remain a lasting testament to the honor of military service,” the PAF said.
To the families left behind, the Air Force offered its deepest sympathies and unwavering support, assuring them that their loved ones’ legacy of duty and patriotism will live on in every airman who follows.
As the PAF stands in mourning, it also stands resolute—committed to continue the mission that these heroes gave their lives for, with the same integrity, resolve, and selfless spirit they exemplified until their final flight.
Nov 5, 2025
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