A Philippine Air Force (PAF) C-130 transport aircraft got one of its wheels stuck in the mud while preparing for takeoff at Catarman Airport in Samar on Saturday, April 8.

*(Photo: Philippine Air Force)*

Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo, PAF spokesperson, said C-130 plane with tail number 5011 was maneuvering for a 180-degree turn to preposition for take off at the threshold of Catarman Samar Airport when it "inadvertently got its left landing gear (wheel) stuck on mud at the edge of the runway."

The incident occured at around 2:30 p.m.

"It had been raining in the area which caused the softening of a part of the grassy ground where the tight turn had to be made," Castillo said.

She said immediate precautionary measures were done to get the landing gear safely out of the muddy area.

"There was no damage on the aircraft and no aircrew nor passengers were hurt," Castillo noted, adding that there were nine aircrew and 17 military personnel (passengers) onboard the aircraft.

"It was only a minor [incident]. [There is] nothing to worry about. It was not an overshoot," she added.

The military transport plane was bound for Mactan, Cebu when the incident happened.

Castillo said that after a thorough inspection, the C-130 took off and continued its mission. The plane landed in Mactan at 6:24 p.m.

"We appreciate the concern regarding this incident. However, the PAF assures the public of its commitment and highest regard for safety as we perform our missions in service of our country and people," Castillo said.