PAF remiss on claims of victims of 1985 crash

ANGELES CITY — Some 15 years ago, an Air Force fighter jet crashed into a newly built house in the heart of this city in Barangay Lourdes East, blasting to death its pilot, a father and his son watching television in their home, and a neighbor.

Later, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) recommended death, as well as moral and property damage claims worth P33,207,600 for the families of fatalities Felix Timbol and his son Fidel, and another P13 million for their neighbor Juan Dabu Jr. Five others who were injured during the crash which gutted three other houses in the area were promised financial claims for lose of income and property damages.

"But up to now, we have not received a single centavo from the government," said 73-year-old Norma Timbol, widow of Felix, as she expressed hope yesterday that President Arroyo would finally respond to her appeal for the release of her claims after past administrations seemed to have ignored her.

"I have seven children who were spared from the tragedy and we have debts to pay," she added between sobs in an interview with The STAR.

The crash occurred after an Air Force F-5a aircraft, piloted by 1Lt. Noe Lansangan, developed engine trouble while on an air defense mission. The aircraft plunged into the Timbol residence at 15 Aquino st. at Lourdes East. Its impact left a deep, badly burned crater.

The claims of the Timbol family included P20 million for the death of Felix, P2.5 million for the death of Fidel, P5 million for moral damages, and P5.7 million for property damages.

On the other hand, the family of Dabu is claiming P13 million for the death of Juan and injuries to his daughters Lorna and Remedios. — Ding Cervantes