A tragic helicopter crash occurred on February 1, 2025, claiming the life of its pilot, Captain Julia Flori Po, who was the only occupant on board. The incident unfolded near Guimba, Nueva Ecija, after Po had transported passengers to the northern city of Baguio and had made a refueling stop in Binalonan, Pangasinan.
According to Eric Apolonio, spokesperson for the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), the helicopter took off from Manila earlier for Baguio, successfully dropping off the passenger at around 10 AM before heading back. After landing for refueling, the aircraft faced engine difficulties upon departure. "There was only one person on board, the pilot in command. It was a lady pilot. Unfortunately, she did not survive," Apolonio told DZBB.
Witnesses noted issues with the helicopter's engine, which reportedly took a long time to start after refueling. Apolonio confirmed these initial reports, stating, "Based on the initial investigation, the ground personnel reported there was an issue, as the engine took a long time to start." After taking off later than scheduled at approximately 4:30 PM, the aircraft was scheduled to arrive back at Manila before nightfall.
At around 5:20 PM, the Guimba Police Station received reports from concerned citizens about the helicopter crash occurring around their area. The aircraft crashed in Purok Arimung-mong, Barangay San Miguel, resulting in Po's death at the scene. CAAP quickly dispatched its Aircraft Accident Investigation and Inquiry Board to the site, emphasizing their commitment to conducting an extensive investigation.
Captain Julia Flori Po, aged only 25, was not just any pilot but part of the prominent Po family known within the Philippine aviation industry. She was the daughter of businessman Archibald "Archie" Po, owner of Lionair Incorporated, the charter service company operating the helicopter. Lionair is recognized as one of the leading providers of helicopter charter services, reflecting the family's significant contribution to the aviation sector.
The news of Po's untimely death reverberated through both the aviation community and political circles. Former President Rodrigo Duterte, who had personal ties with Archie Po, was among the first to pay his respects. Duterte acknowledged their long-standing friendship during his presidency when he frequently utilized planes from Archie Po for campaign purposes.
The day following the crash, Duterte visited the wake, offering his condolences to the grieving family. Political figures like Senator Bato dela Rosa also expressed shock at the tragedy. Dela Rosa confirmed he had been on board the flight to Baguio alongside Po earlier on February 1, describing the experience as smooth and normal. "Our flight to Baguio was very smooth and we were all happy. I didn’t feel anything unusual — very good weather, I didn’t see [signs of] bad weather," he stated to Senate reporters.
Po’s family, devastated by the tragic loss, made arrangements to transport her remains back to their hometown. The wake was held at Heritage Memorial Park in Taguig City, with funeral services planned shortly thereafter to honor the young pilot's life and legacy.
A thorough investigation has commenced, with updates expected as authorities work to ascertain the precise cause of the crash. The CAAP stated, "CAAP, in coordination with local authorities, is conducting a thorough investigation. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available." The mechanical issues and subsequent crash has raised concerns about helicopter safety procedures and protocols.
Julia Flori Po's tragic death serves as a stark reminder of both the hazards of aviation and the emotional fallout it leaves on those left behind. Her family and friends mourn not only the loss of a skilled pilot but also the untimely demise of someone with great potential within the aviation industry. The community now awaits clearer insights from the investigation as they try to come to terms with the loss and support each other during this difficult time.