21-2-2025 (MANILA) The body of Police Colonel Pergentino Malabed Jr., who perished in last month’s devastating mid-air collision over Washington DC’s Potomac River, has been repatriated to the Philippines, officials confirmed today.
Col. Malabed, 51, who headed the Philippine National Police’s Supply Management Division, was accorded full military honours upon arrival at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport. The solemn ceremony marked the beginning of a series of memorial services for the decorated officer.
The tragic incident occurred on 29 January when a commercial airliner collided with a Black Hawk helicopter, claiming 67 lives. Malabed was in the United States on an official mission to inspect protective equipment for the force, having previously visited India to evaluate 2,675 all-purpose vests for PNP personnel.
PNP Chief Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil praised Malabed’s service record, describing his death as “a profound loss to the organisation”. The fallen officer’s remains were subsequently transported to Camp Crame, the PNP headquarters, where a religious service and public viewing were arranged with vigil guards in attendance.
In recognition of his distinguished career, Malabed will be posthumously awarded the PNP Distinguished Service Medal and Outstanding Achievement Medal. His family is set to receive approximately $45,000 in benefits through the Public Safety Mutual Benefit Fund and associated insurance provisions.
NOW: The Philippine National Police holds a funeral ceremony and arrival honors for Colonel Malabed at its headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City.
Necrological services will take place at the camp’s Multi-Purpose Center to honor Malabed’s dedication to service. pic.twitter.com/rI6aD4W3XY
— Michael Joe Delizo (@michael_delizo) February 21, 2025
Police Colonel Randulf Tuaño, speaking for the PNP’s Public Information Office, emphasised Malabed’s exemplary service record. “These ceremonies reflect our profound appreciation for Colonel Malabed’s unwavering dedication and symbolise the PNP’s commitment to preserving his legacy,” Tuaño stated.
The colonel’s final journey will conclude on 27 February at the Memorial Gardens in Sta. Rosa City, Laguna, where he will be laid to rest with full funeral honours. The ceremony will serve as the force’s ultimate tribute to an officer who died while serving his country abroad.
Prior to the fatal accident, Malabed had been scheduled to meet with Police Attaché Colonel Moises Villaceran Jr. in Washington DC, following his arrival from Kansas where he had conducted equipment evaluations. He was accompanied by two colleagues during the initial phase of his mission, which began on 22 January.
