BY: CHARLES NIKKO LIMON
A trip turned tragic after a van carrying several passengers lost its brakes and crashed into a concrete barrier along Marcos Highway in Barangay Poblacion, Tuba, Benguet, on Saturday, March 9.
Authorities confirmed that three passengers died on the spot, while 19 others were injured.
According to reports, the vehicle was traveling from Baguio City to La Union when its brakes failed around 4:40 a.m. The driver swerved and hit a concrete parapet, causing the van to overturn.
“The vehicle experienced mechanical failure, specifically brake failure. The driver attempted to maneuver the van but ended up crashing into the barrier,” said Police Lt. Col. Carolina Lacuata, spokesperson for the Police Regional Office Cordillera.
The fatalities, all from Pampanga, were identified as a 46-year-old man from Floridablanca and two women—one 22 years old and the other 56 years old—from San Francisco.
Rescuers from 911 On Call reported that some passengers were pinned inside the wreckage.
“Three individuals were trapped in the front of the van—one child and two adults—while another victim was found lifeless at the back,” said Rafael “Paeng” Valencia, a responder.
The injured passengers were rushed to the Baguio City General Hospital and Medical Center for treatment.
Authorities identified the driver as a 66-year-old man who survived the crash. Marcos Highway is known as an accident-prone area, and investigators are still determining whether charges will be filed against the driver.
A 57-year-old scrap collector sustained injuries after being hit by a motorcycle rider early Saturday morning, March 9, in Barangay MRR Queen of Peace.
The incident occurred around 3 a.m. along Naguilian Road. Authorities said the motorcycle rider, a 26-year-old man, lost control of his vehicle while navigating a curve.
“Based on our investigation, the rider was intoxicated. When he reached the curved portion of the road, he lost control of his motorcycle,” said Police Major Marcy Grace Marron, spokesperson for the Baguio City Police Office.
The victim suffered a foot injury, while the rider sustained minor abrasions. Both were taken to a hospital for treatment.
The rider has agreed to shoulder the victim’s medical expenses.
Authorities once again reminded motorists to avoid driving under the influence of alcohol to prevent accidents.
