PNP official among fatalities in US mid-air collision

MANILA, Philippines — A Filipino police official was among those killed in the mid-air collision between a passenger aircraft and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter in Washington, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said yesterday.

The PNP said Col. Pergentino Malabed Jr., who heads the Directorate for Logistics’ supply management division, was among the passengers on the American Airlines flight that
collided with the helicopter near the Reagan National Airport and crashed into the Potomac River.

Malabed was on official travel for a pre-delivery inspection of 2,675 vests to be procured by the PNP.

“(He was) fulfilling his duty as a dedicated police 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, where he served with honor, integrity and dedication throughout his career,” the PNP said in a statement.?

“We extend our deepest condolences to his bereaved family, loved ones and colleagues. The PNP is committed to providing them with all necessary support during this difficult time,” it added.

Col. Randulf Tuano, PNP public information officer, said Malabed left on Jan. 22 together with a non-commissioned officer and a non-uniformed personnel for India for the pre-delivery inspection of the vests.

From Kansas, Malabed boarded a flight to Washington for an exit call with PNP’s police attaché, Col. Moises Villaceran.

Malabed, a member of the Philippine National Police Academy Class of 1998, was to turn 52 on Feb. 18.

Tuano said authorities in Washington initially identified Malabed through his passport and other documents. Malabed’s wife is on her way to the US to positively identify him.

Tuano added that the PNP is assisting Malabed’s family, including arrangements for the transport of his body back to the Philippines.

“There are initial plans already on what rightful honors should be bestowed upon Col. Malabed,” he said.