Vina figures in mishap

Actress Vina Morales narrowly escaped death after her vehicle crashed into a transit cement mixer in Quezon City last Thursday, but she could face up to a year in prison for allegedly driving while using her cellphone.

Morales, whose real name is Sharon Magdayao, 25, of 30 Ignacio Street, North Susana Heights Subdivision, Diliman, was spared from major injuries, but her vehicle, a Honda CRV, was severely damaged.

Charges of reckless imprudence are set to be filed against Morales, who could also face a prison term for allegedly violating City Ordinance No. 507. The ordinance prohibits the use of cellular phones and other communication devices while driving within Quezon City.

The accident happened last week at about 9:30 p.m. along Katipunan Avenue while Morales was driving her CRV (WEW-288) towards Aurora Boulevard. The movie actress was reportedly "busy texting" on her cellphone that she did not notice a mobile cement mixer had come to a full stop at a traffic light. Morales’ vehicle crashed into the rear of the mixer.

If proven that she indeed used her cellphone while driving, she could land in jail and pay a fine. The ordinance was approved three years ago by the Quezon City Council. —  Matthew Estabillo