Chopper deployed to rescue efforts in Iloilo mishap

MANILA -- The Philippine Air Force (PAF) on Monday announced that it has deployed a Bell UH-1 “Super Huey” to conduct aerialsearch operations over the Iloilo-Guimaras Strait, where three motor bancas have capsized Saturday due to inclement weather, drowning more than 20 people.

Major Aristides Galang, PAF spokesperson, said the “Super Huey” with tail number 890 and carrying pararescue personnel will operate alongside the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

The aircraft is from the Air Force’s 505th Searchand-Rescue Group.

Aside from the helicopter, the PAF’s Tactical Operation Group-6 in Iloilo has also provided KM-450 and M-35 trucks to help ferry survivors from Parola Wharf to Lapuz Port in Iloilo City.

Galang added that as of 8 a.m., PAF units over the Guimaras Strait has spotted a victim on the waters, who was later retrieved by the PCG.

The victims was later identified as Romeo Baguio, Sr., one of the passengers of the ill-fated bancas, and was taken to the West Visayas Medical Center, Iloilo City.