Six killed in helicopter crash in Philippines

MANILA - At least six people, including a provincial governor, were killed Monday in a helicopter crash in northern Philippines, officials said.

Outgoing governor of Quezon, Rafael Nantes, two of his security guards and the pilot were killed after the chopper crashed in Lucena City in the northern province of Quezon, about 300 metres upon takeoff, said Col. Generoso Bolina, an army spokesman.

He said the chopper hit two houses on the ground, killing two civilians.

According to Lt. Gen. Roland Detabali, the helicopter exploded when it was on its way to Manila.

“A total of six died, including the two civilians. The chopper came here (in Lucena). It exploded 300 metres from takeoff,” Xinhua quoted him as saying.

Bolina said investigations were on to ascertain whether the chopper was sabotaged.