MANILA, Philippines — All the 50 soldiers who died when a C-130 transport plane crashed in Patikul, Sulu have been identified, according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
The latest to be identified were Cpls. Dexter Estrada, Reynel Matundin and Gulam Ismael; Pfc. Bengie Malanog; Pvts. Ian Azuelo, Erwin Canton, Mansueto Lingatong III, Mar Jhun Capagngan and Michael Dalore of the Philippine Army, and Airman 2nd Class Glen Mar Biscocho.
AFP spokesman Col. Ramon Zagala said the remains of the soldiers have been transported to their hometowns.
“The AFP condoles with the families of our deceased comrades in this time of grief,” Zagala said. “Rest assured that they will be provided with the necessary support and assistance as well as benefits due to soldiers who died in the line of duty.”
Aside from the soldiers, three civilians on the ground died when the military plane overshot the runway.
There were 12 Air Force personnel and 84 Army troopers on the aircraft.
The soldiers were supposed to be deployed to fight Abu Sayyaf bandits in Sulu when the accident occurred.
The military is waiting for the result of the analysis of the flight data recorder that was sent to the United States for examination.