The co-pilot of the ill-fated light attack helicopter of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) bared that mechanical failure is the reason behind the crash of the said helicopter off the waters of barangay Taytay, Getafe town, on Tuesday, Apr. 27, 2021.
Getafe police chief Capt. Fernando Peroramas told The Bohol Tribune on Tuesday that Lt. Hilary Bunaw, the helicopter co-pilot, narrated to investigators that the helicopter encountered mechanical failure, which led to crash of the MG520 helicopter.
The crash killed Capt. Aurelios Olana, the pilot, and injured Airman First Class Bonn Arasola and Airman First Class Rex Anopyo, according to Peroramas.
Olano, 32, is a native of Candijay town and a veteran of the Marawi siege, according to reports.
Peroramas said that the injured PAF personnel were transferred to Cebu for further treatment.
According to reports, that the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the PAF will be conducting retrieval operations in relation to the fallen helicopter.
Reports added the helicopter crashed near Jadayan island off the coastal waters of barangay Taytay in Getafe town.