Criminal charges readied vs drivers in Talisay mishap

CEBU, Philippines -  Charges of reckless imprudence resulting in homicide are now being prepared for filing against the two drivers involved in the accident in Barangay Lawaan I, Talisay City Tuesday morning that killed a woman after she was run over by a cement mixer truck.

Thelma Patata, 67, mother of the victim, Janet Eludo, appeared before the Talisay City Police Station yesterday to file a formal complaint against truck driver Ferdinand Gimenez, 38, and habal-habal driver Jurry Manggay.

Patata said she wants the two drivers to answer for the death of her daughter.

Eludo, 39, resident of Barangay Lawaan I, was with her son, John Cloyd, riding the habal-habal driven by Manggay on their way home to Camella Homes after attending a hearing of the annulment of her marriage when the accident happened.

Manggay allegedly tried to overtake the truck but was forced to maneuver back to his lane upon seeing an oncoming vehicle from the opposite direction, resulting in the crash. Eludo fell off the motorcycle and was run over by the cement mixer truck driven by Gimenez.

Patata said she knew her daughter was in pain because of her failed marriage.   John Cloyd said he could not forget how his mother saved him from being run over by the truck during the incident.

"Mura ko og nakuyapan pagkabangga, ako nabanta-yan ako ang una nga nahulog unya naay niduot sa akong ulo, gi-swag ko, giluwas ko sa akong mama pero siya nalatayan," he said.

Police Officer 1 Carlos Dicdican said they are already preparing the charges against the two drivers.

Based on the investigation, the two drivers were allegedly at fault, especially the habal-habal driver who was found to have no driver's license. The motorcycle also did not have a registration.

Both Manggay and Gimenez have already apologized and begged for amicable settlement.  (FREEMAN)