C-130 plane crash death toll rises to 53

ZAMBOANGA CITY– The death toll in the C-130 plane crash last week rose to 53 on Friday after another injured soldier died while being treated in a hospital.

Western Mindanao Command chief Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr. confirmed yesterday that Pvt. Jesfel Mequiabas died at the Ciudad Medical Zamboanga.

“We are deeply saddened by the demise of one of the 47 survivors of the air mishap in Sulu,” Vinluan said.

“Let us pray for his eternal repose and strength for his bereaved family. His remains will be transported to his hometown in Misamis Oriental anytime soon,” he added.

Fifty soldiers and three civilians died in the plane crash in Sitio Amman, Barangay Bangkal in Patikul, Sulu on July 4.

Forty-six other soldiers and three civilians who were injured remain confined in various hospitals in this city and in Davao.

“Let us also continue to pray for the speedy recovery of the 49 victims who are recuperating at different private and public hospitals,” Vinluan said.

Meanwhile, Vinluan led the distribution of hygiene kits, fruits, biscuits and other items to soldiers and civilians confined at the Camp Navarro General Hospital, Zamboanga City Medical Center, West Metro Medical Center, Zamboanga Doctor’s Hospital and Ciudad Medical Zamboanga.

The goodies were donated by the Armed Forces of the Philippines Officers’ Ladies Club.