A Malaysian national has tragically died, and another sustained injuries, after a helicopter crash in Pililla, Rizal province, Philippines, early Tuesday morning. The incident, involving a Bell 505 helicopter carrying five people, occurred around 7.27 am as the aircraft attempted an emergency landing on an open field while en route from Manila to Quezon province.
The deceased Malaysian, identified as Jacob, was a highly respected member of Farm Fresh Berhad and the company’s Farm Director. A heartfelt statement from Farm Fresh described him as “a delightful person of good cheer, kind in action and speech,” who had been with the company for 13 years and contributed significantly to the dairy farm division. His professionalism, leadership, and personal warmth earned him the admiration of colleagues and government partners alike.
Shawn, the company’s Philippines-based CEO, was also onboard and sustained injuries but is reported to be in stable condition. Farm Fresh expressed grief over the loss and extended condolences to Jacob’s family, including his wife Amy.
Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines, Datuk Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, confirmed that consular assistance has been provided to Jacob’s next of kin and that the injured Malaysian is receiving medical treatment locally. The embassy is working closely with Philippine authorities to facilitate necessary arrangements.
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has launched an investigation into the emergency landing, with the Aircraft Accident Investigation and Inquiry Board reviewing all operational and technical factors related to the flight. Further updates are expected as the probe progresses.
Farm Fresh urged employees and stakeholders to honour Jacob’s memory by continuing to uphold the standards and values he championed within the company.
