By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone C.
Marshall Jr.
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, Aug. 20, 2012 – The Defense
Department is helping the Philippine government search for the nation’s
interior secretary, who has been missing since his plane crashed two days ago,
Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said today.
Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo and two
pilots have not been heard from since their small plane crashed about 500
meters offshore Aug. 18, Little told reporters. An aide escaped the plane after
the crash, he added.
The Philippine government asked the United
States for help in the search and rescue operation, Little said.
“Secretary Robredo is a respected and
valuable leader and partner in the Philippines,” he said. “Our thoughts are
with those in the aircraft, their families, and with the people of the Philippines
during this difficult time.”
Little noted the United States provided
initial aerial support following the plane crash upon request and is preparing
to provide additional assistance. The Philippine government also has requested
underwater assistance, and Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta has approved that
assistance, Little said.
“We’re finalizing plans to support the
search and rescue operation with underwater salvage assets,” he added.
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