BY: CHARLES NIKKO LIMON
The pick-up truck was badly damaged in Sitio Camanggaan, First Gate, Barangay Ucab, Itogon, Benguet, after it fell into a ravine about 100 meters deep on January 20 at around 6:40 in the morning.
Joel, one of the first responders, recalls what happened.
According to Joel Bangadon, a Witness, “While waiting for my sibling to head to Baguio, I heard a shout that a vehicle had fallen. I ran without slippers and saw the child was still there.”
The vehicle stayed at the top of the ravine but gradually slid down.
The passengers screamed in pain while waiting for help.
“One tried to get up but his body twisted, unable to move, screaming ‘Mama, Mama,’” Bangadon added.
The police, MDRRMO, BFP, and some residents helped rescue the passengers.
According to the police investigation, the passengers were on their way to Baguio City when they overtook another vehicle, lost control of the steering wheel, and went straight into the ravine.
“They were heading to Baguio. When they overtook another vehicle, they lost control of the steering wheel and went straight into the ravine,” said PMAJ. Mac Kenley Mayomis, Chief of Police at Itogon PNP.
Authorities confirmed that Charles Oplas, 21, died on the spot, while Ruvelyn Agapinan, 27, and driver Jefferson Oplas, 29, were rushed to the hospital but were declared dead on arrival. A 14-year-old male passenger was injured.
The PNP added that an accident also occurred in the same area 10 years ago.
“In coordination with the LGU and DPWH, additional signage will be placed there,” Mayomis added.
The local government of Itogon assured assistance for the victims’ families.
