11 people hurt in Sibonga road mishap

CEBU, Philippines – Eleven people, three of whom are minors, sustained injuries after the vehicle they were riding rammed into a coconut tree in Barangay Lindogon, Sibonga town last Monday morning.

The victims were identified as Marissa Saldua, 20, Annalie Llanez, 24, Buenaflor Castañares, 34, Andres Castañares, 56, Clotildi Castañares, 56, two women identified only as Cora and Flora, Nicolle Christine Castañares, two years old, Angilie Castañares, five years old, and Niña Mae Castañares, nine years old.

The driver of the green minicab with plate number GTT-910 was identified as Florenciano Castañares, 34, a resident of Carcar City.

The victims reportedly came from a mass at the Simala Shrine and were heading to the beach to celebrate the birthday of one of the minors when the incident occurred.

PO3 Ederlino Bacusmo of the Sibonga Police told The Freeman that Florenciano lost control of the vehicle when the minicab lost its breaks.

"Nakabagat og defect ang driver sa makina sa sakyanan. Ingon na nikalit lang og lock ang steering wheel mao nawadan og control ang driver sa maong sakyanan," Bacusmo added.

Police said that some of the victims were thrown off the minicab when the vehicle hit the coconut tree. Clotildi, who was sitting beside the driver, was the one who suffered the most injuries after the windshield was shattered.

The victims are currently undergoing treatment at the Naga City Hospital. (FREEMAN)