Chopper crash victims' dedication to serve the country
worthy of emulation--Gordon

Independent Senator Richard J. Gordon today said that the victims of the ill-fated Bell 412 Presidential helicopter are worthy of every Filipino's emulation for their exemplary dedication in their sworn duty to serve the country.

Gordon issued the statement as he expressed profound sympathy and sincere condolences on the deaths of Press Undersecretary Jose Capadocia, Marilou Frostrom, Perlita Bandayanon, Brig. Gen. Carlos Clet, Maj. Rolando Sacatani, Capt. Alvin Alegata, Quarter Master 3rd Class Demilyn Reyno, and crewman Sgt. Roe Gem Perez.

"We grieve and mourn the deaths of our colleagues in the public service who had sworn to serve the country and the Filipino people by assisting the President in the discharge of her duties," he said in filing Senate Resolution 976.

"It is for this reason that they should be commended and bestowed the highest honors, for risking life and limb in the fulfillment of their oath to the country and to the people," he added.

On April 7, the Bell 412 Presidential helicopter, bound for Ifugao, crashed into a heavily forested mountain along the Mount Pulag range, possibly due to inclement weather, killing all its eight passengers.

Gordon said the victims, who are members of the President's Composite Advance Planning and Action (CAPA) Team, pushed on to accomplish what they were tasked to do, exhibiting utmost professionalism and dedication to their jobs.

The team was supposed to prepare for the President's inspection of the Halsema Highway in Ifugao, a priority project of the administration. Despite poor weather conditions, the group pushed through in performing their duties.

"These are the kind of people our country needs--people who show professionalism, hard work, dedication and bravery in the performance of their sworn duties to the country and to the Filipino people," he said.

Gordon said copies of the Resolution will be provided to the families of the deceased to ensure the recognition and appreciation of the people for their valiant efforts in the service of the country.