2 dead, 2 hurt in Quezon City smashup

MANILA, Philippines - Two persons were killed while four others were seriously injured in a three-vehicle accident along San Mateo Road in Quezon City Monday night.

Traffic Sector 5 commander Senior Inspector Maximo Sabio said Arnel Ordita and an unidentified man died from severe head injuries while those injured were vendor Melani Balderrama, 46; and couple Catalina Judie and Hayden Tabile, both 20 years old.

Police Officer 2 Diomedes Mampusti said Roberto Vergara, 59, was driving along San Mateo Road towards San Mateo town when his brakes reportedly failed and his jeepney rear-ended a tricycle driven by Nicasio Canido, 42, at around 8:30 p.m.

The jeepney sped on and also rear-ended an MGE taxi driven by Arnulfo Habulan, 35.

Canido and the victims, who were in the tricycle cab, were taken to the East Avenue Medical Center for treatment.

Vergara faces charges of reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide, multiple physical injuries and multiple damage to property.     – Jerry Botial