Girl, 4, dies hours after seeing dad off at NAIA

Four-year-old Malia Kates died in a heartbreaking accident on Sunday, May 4, just moments after seeing her father, Denmark Masongsong, off at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 as he returned to work in the Czech Republic.

Malia was the only child of Cynthia and Denmark Masongsong and was lovingly called "Mahal" by her family.

She was described by her first cousin, Iori, as a loving, energetic, and cheerful child who was shy but playful with her family.

The family had been cherishing time together as Denmark was home from his overseas work, making the tragedy particularly heartbreaking.

Malia had been overjoyed to spend time with her father and extended family, especially her older cousins, who adored her.