Driver of truck that hit Chong Hua ambulance charged

CEBU, Philippines - The driver of the Toyota Hilux that hit the ambulance of Chong Hua Hospital, which resulted to the death of a nurse, is facing charges in court.

Prosecutor Simaco Labata yesterday elevated to the Municipal Trial Court in Cities a case for reckless imprudence resulting in homicide against Noel Anthony Logarta after the driver chose not to file his counter-affidavit. 

Labata recommended P30,000 bail for Logarta’s temporary liberty.

The accused, 20, a resident of 22nd Mountain View Village, Quiot, Cebu City, however, failed to appear in court yesterday as he was confined at the hospital for medication.

In the complaint filed by Mark Selisana, nephew of the nurse, Trecie Abaño, the ambulance was traversing MJ Cuenco Avenue heading toward the Mactan Cebu International Airport past midnight last April 10 when the incident happened.

“Upon traversing J. Luna avenue corner, the left side rear portion of the said ambulance vehicle was accidentally hit by the front portion of the Toyota Hilux with plate number YHK 500 which was driven by Logarta.”

He said the incident was due to Logarta’s recklessness and his failure to observe traffic rules.

His aunt fell out of the ambulance and rolled on her side. Abaño died from severe head and body injuries. Selisana said his aunt was brought to hospital but was declared dead on arrival.

Abaño was escorting a patient, Michael Jazmin, 37, who was to be brought to Singapore via a private plane. The Chong Hua ambulance was driven by Juan Cabigas.

Logarta was found positive of liquor. — (FREEMAN)