Culture & Entertainment · Philippines Bureau
Philippine communities mourn four air force pilots in Batangas midair collision
Four Philippine Air Force pilots, including a decorated officer from Urdaneta City, were killed in a midair collision over Batangas province on October 23. Communities across the region are mourning the loss of the aircrew members.
LSN Philippines ·

Captain Raymart Cabangcala of Barangay Catablan in Urdaneta City was among the four PAF pilots who died in the collision, marking a significant loss for his hometown. Cabangcala was the barangay's first Philippine Military Academy graduate, according to residents and family members.
Cabangcala's mother, Myrna, 66 years old, shared with local media that her son harbored ambitious aspirations for both his family and his community. His death has left a void in Urdaneta City, where he was widely regarded as a source of pride.
The midair collision occurred on October 23 over Batangas, resulting in the deaths of all four pilots aboard. The incident has prompted an outpouring of grief across multiple communities in the region, with residents gathering to honor the fallen airmen.
Investigations into the cause of the collision are ongoing. The Philippine Air Force is expected to release further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the accident.