PNP colonel among dead in US aviation tragedy
An official of the Philippine National Police (PNP) was among the 67 people confirmed dead in the collision between a passenger jet and a helicopter in Washington D.C.
In a statement, the PNP identified the officer as Police Col. Pergentino Malabed, chief of the Supply Management Division and member of the Philippine National Police Academy Class of 1998.
Malabed was onboard the American Eagle Flight 5342 that collided with a US Army helicopter near Reagan Washington National Airport on Wednesday.
Malabed was on official travel, “fulfilling his duty, committed to the service of protecting and securing both the PNP and the nation,” the PNP said in tribute to the official.
He flew to the US to personally see the testing of a batch of armored vests procured by the PNP.
“His untimely passing is a profound loss to the PNP, where he served with honor, integrity, and dedication throughout his career,” the PNP said. “His contributions to the PNP and the nation will never be forgotten.”
“We extend our deepest condolences to his bereaved family, loved ones, and colleagues,” it added, assuring the officer’s family members of support.
The PNP is assisting Malabed’s widow in arranging a trip to Washington to see her husband’s remains, said Col. Randulf Tuaño, chief of the PNP public information office.
