They had no helmets: One dead, two hurt as motorcycles collide

CEBU, Philippines - Despite the ongoing controversy regarding the motorcycle helmet law, there are still those who choose to ignore the law completely and get behind the handlebars without any headgear at all — and for some the consequences are fatal.

In Barangay Valladolid, Carcar City, one man was killed while two others were injured after their motorcycles collided head-on on the national highway of the said place last Saturday evening.

All victims were not wearing any protective headgear and both drivers were driving without a license.

Jarlemly Gantuangco, 23, of Barangay Tuyom, the driver of a Honda Wave without a plate number, was declared dead on arrival at the Carcar Provincial Hospital where he was rushed together with the two other victims.

They were identified as Christian Regis, 22, of Barangay Tuyom, who was riding pillion on the motorcycle of Gantuangco; and Godofredo Sagolili, 27, of Barangay Valladolid, who was driving another Honda Wave with license plate numbers 9568 TH.

The two were later transferred to the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center in Cebu City for further treatment.

Gantuangco was heading to Barangay Poblacion from Barangay Tuyom together with Regis while Sagolili was heading to Barangay Valladolid coming from the rotunda in Barangay Poblacion.

Sagolili reportedly overtook another vehicle and encroached into the other lane where Gantuangco was traveling and both motorcycles collided.

All victims were thrown to the pavement by the impact.

A case for reckless imprudence resulting in homicide and physical injuries is being prepared against Sagolili who is still confined at the hospital.

Despite accidents like these, many motorcycle drivers still choose to ride bareheaded or wear helmets improperly.

Nelia Navarro, director of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-7, said that they are just an agency implementing Republic Act 10054 or the Helmet Law and protests should be addressed to the House of Representatives.

She added that mandatory use of the standard helmet does not mean they are depriving motorcycle-for-hire drivers of their living but rather they are helping them in securing their own safety.

Under the law, both motorcycle drivers and their passengers are required to wear the authorized head gear bearing the ICC or the PS stickers.

The DTI has until the end of the year to inspect helmets after complaints from motorcycle riders ranging from lack of stickers to slow processing. —/BRP (FREEMAN)