Four people were killed on Tuesday when a plane operated by the Energy Development Corporation (EDC) crashed into the slopes of Mayon Volcano in Albay province, shortly after taking off from the Bicol International Airport in Daraga, sources said.
The aircraft, a Cessna 340, was bound for Manila when it went down, according to local authorities. All four passengers were employees of the geothermal energy firm, including two Australian technical consultants who were part of the company's operations in the region.
EDC confirmed the incident in a statement, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of its personnel. The company said it is coordinating with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) and other agencies to assist in the investigation and recovery efforts.
Rescue teams, including personnel from the Philippine Air Force and the Albay Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, were deployed to the crash site, which was located near the volcano's upper slopes. Due to the rugged terrain and poor visibility, teams had to reach the wreckage by foot, arriving several hours after the accident.
The Cessna 340 had taken off in clear weather, but reports indicate that the aircraft may have encountered unexpected conditions before disappearing from radar. Investigators are looking into possible mechanical failure and pilot error as they work to determine the cause of the tragedy.
Mayor of Daraga and other local officials extended their condolences to the families of the victims. The Australian government also offered assistance and confirmed its nationals were among those who perished, though their names have not been released pending notification of next of kin.
The Bicol International Airport, which opened in 2021, serves as a gateway to the region's tourism and business hubs. The accident has raised concerns about aviation safety in the area, but officials assured that the airport remains open and operations have returned to normal.