Driver hurt after truck plows into waiting shed

CEBU, Philippines - A motorcycle-for-hire driver is now in critical condition after a truck crashed into the shed where he was waiting for passengers in Sitio Lamac, Barangay Ilihan, Tabogon Town, around noon yesterday.

Oscar Gulbin, a resident of Barangay Kantobaon, Tabuelan town, sustained severe injuries in various parts of his body after he was thrown from his motorcycle.

Tabogon Police Station chief Senior Insp. Alexander Ancao said the victim was struck in the back by the speeding truck and thrown several meters away.

Ancao said Gulbin was rushed to the Juan Dosado District Hospital in Sogod town and later transferred to a hospital in Cebu City because of his severe injuries.

Gulbin’s motorcycle was totaled, as were two others owned by Teofilo Ochea Jr., 31, of Barangay Kalamba, San Remigio town, and Carlito Rondina, 28, of Barangay Kanluhangon, Tabuelan, that were also hit by the truck.

Truck driver Rene Empas, 22, of Barangay Gibitngil, Medellin town, reportedly came from a wheat delivery in Daanbantayan town and was on his way back to Cebu City when the accident happened.

Police said he allegedly dozed off behind the wheel and crashed into the waiting shed.

The suspect is currently detained at the Tabogon Police Station stockade while charges of reckless imprudence resulting to serious physical injuries and damage to property are being prepared against him. — (FREEMAN)