What happened
On a scheduled domestic service from Manila to Mactan, Flight 345 departed at 1720 hours under IFR clearance via Amber 1 at flight level 130. During the descent phase, the aircraft communicated with Mactan Control Approach, reporting a descent through FL 70 and later requesting a visual descent from FL 50 to 30. At 1913 hours, the crew initiated a VOR approach for runway 04.
While on a long final approach at an altitude of approximately 1,500 feet, roughly 4 miles from the runway threshold, the aircraft transitioned into a nose-high attitude accompanied by increased engine power. During this period, crew members exited the cockpit to instruct supernumerary crew and passengers to move toward the front of the cabin. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft began oscillating between left and right banks while descending in a tail-low manner. The aircraft impacted the ground at approximately 1918 hours, about 0.9 miles before reaching the runway 04 threshold. An aerodrome controller observed fire near the approach end of the runway immediately following the impact.
The accident resulted in 12 fatalities (comprising all four crew members and eight passengers) and 7 survivors.
Findings
Investigation into the crash revealed no mechanical failures or engine malfunctions prior to the impact. The aircraft struck the ground with its landing gear extended and flaps retracted, maintaining a left-wing low attitude. While the elevator trim tab was found in a full nose-down position, investigators concluded that the center of gravity was located beyond the aft limit due to improper load distribution.