Critically wounded soldier in Sulu C-130 crash dies

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Friday confirmed that another soldier died of severe injuries from the July 4 C-130 plane crash in Patikul, Sulu.

“The AFP is saddened to confirm the death of Pvt Jesfel Mequiabas, PA (Philippine Army) of Misamis Oriental who expired at 2:30 a.m. this 16 July 2021,” AFP public affairs office chief Navy Capt. Jonathan Zata said in a statement.

Mequiabas was among those critically wounded in the mishap.

“The AFP has reached out to his loved ones and his remains are being prepared to be transported to their hometown,” Zata said.

This brought the total number of military deaths from the crash to 50, with 29 remains already identified while other cadavers are still undergoing the identification process.

Another 46 military personnel are still undergoing treatment.

Three civilians on the ground were also killed along with four others were injured in the incident.