Girl killed, 16 hurt as bus rams tree

MANILA, Philippines - An 11-year-old girl was killed while 16 others were injured when a Vallacar Transit bus rammed into a tree Sunday afternoon in Barangay Luca, Ajuy, Iloilo.

Sheryn Buedia, a resident of Barangay Pili, who was seated near the driver, was thrown out of her seat due to the impact of the crash. She was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital.

Senior Inspector Ariel Artillero, Ajuy police chief, said at least four passengers were still confined at the Sara District Hospital as of yesterday afternoon.

Alcon Aldea, driver of the bus with body number 6375, said he tried to avoid an elderly man crossing the street. The bus swerved and hit a mahogany tree before it turned over.