President Duterte’s plan came after a UH-1H “Huey” combat utility aircraft helicopter crashed in Impasug-ong, Bukidnon on January 16, killing five military personnel and two militiamen.
The “Hueys,” short for the UH-1H and UH-1D models, are Vietnam War-era helicopters that have been refurbished. They serve as the main workhorse of the Philippine Air Force.
"How many Huey helicopters do we still have? I want those replaced. They are already outdated,” Duterte said.
President had already entered into a deal for the procurement of new helicopters. He, however, did not elaborate on the agreement.
I will buy six or seven helicopters to replace the Huey cargo helicopters. I already had a deal,” Duterte said.
The President admitted he was "hurt" when he heard about the helicopter crash in Bukidnon that killed 7, including 5 military officers, and that he would look for funds to replace the air assets.
"I was hurt with the crash because I am the country's administrator then that happened under my watch. It is hurtful." Deterte explained.
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