What happened
During the cruise phase of flight at an altitude of 10,500 feet, the aircraft experienced an onboard explosion. Following this event, the plane became uncontrollable and entered a steep dive. The descent ended when the aircraft struck a field situated in the vicinity of Cabanatuan.
There were 36 fatalities recorded as a result of the accident, with no survivors reported among the occupants.
Findings
Investigations into the incident concluded that an explosion took place within the rear lavatory while the aircraft was in flight. While the occurrence of the blast was confirmed, investigators were unable to determine the specific origin or trigger of the explosion.