by Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 8) A Senate investigation into the military plane crash in Sulu will bring up issues surrounding the deployment and modernization of the Armed Forces, Sen. Risa Hontiveros said Thursday.
She echoed the call of other senators to conduct a probe and address issues involving the maintenance of air assets, budget allocation for military modernization, training of uniformed personnel, and safety measures for the deployment of soldiers to different parts of the country.
“My colleagues are also pointing out various angles of this tragic accident that we need to get to the bottom of, so as to prevent recurrences,” Hontiveros told CNN Philippines’ The Source.
“This tragedy highlights and brings together many urgent and important issues that we need to raise in terms of honoring the memory of these many people, including many young people serving in the Armed Forces who have lost their lives unnecessarily,” she added.
Hontiveros did not say when the investigation will likely take place, but she noted that the probe will definitely be prioritized when senators go back in session. Congress will begin its third and final regular session on July 26.
In separate statements on Monday, Sen. Grace Poe and Sen. Francis Pangilinan raised the need to put in place safety measures and equipment in military planes, while Sen. Ronald dela Rosa reiterated the importance of military modernization to replace “antiquated military aircrafts” which he described as “flying coffins” or “widow makers.”
Hontiveros, on the other hand, expressed hope that the probe will also shed light on how the military’s external defense can be improved, especially when engaging with China on issues surrounding the West Philippine Sea.
On Wednesday, AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Cirilito Sobejana said 49 soldiers and three civilians died after the C-130 plane crashed in Patikul, Sulu on Sunday.
The bodies of 19 military personnel were identified, while the blackbox of the C-130 plane was sent to the United States for analysis.
READ: Death toll from Sulu plane crash still at 52, AFP clarifies; 19 bodies identified
