Air Force chopper crashes in Leyte

MANILA, Philippines - An Air Force helicopter involved in relief efforts in typhoon-hit areas crashed in Leyte Friday afternoon, security officials said.

No one died in the mishap, which occurred at around 3:30 p.m.

Air Force spokesman Col. Miguel Okol said the UH-1H #940 helicopter went down in area between the towns of Burauen and La Paz. Authorities are still determining what caused the crash.

Five crew members and three civilian passengers were on board the helicopter. At least two of the passengers were personnel of the Social Welfare department.

Supt. Erwin Portillo, community relations officer of the Leyte Provincial Police said all the passengers were safe but sustained injuries.

The injured passengers have been brought to the Burauen District Hospital for medical treatment.

The identities of the passengers have yet to be released.

“Aircraft accident investigation board has been convened to determine the cause of the incident. It may be due to environmental, mechanical or human factors,” Okol said.