5 dead in Samal road accident

DAVAO CITY, Philippines – At least five people were killed while several others were injured when the brakes of the bus they were riding malfunctioned, causing the bus to roll over, shortly before noon yesterday in the Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte.

Police said the Island City Express bus with license plate LWU 812 was carrying at least 30 passengers and was on its way to Kaputian district when the driver lost control of the wheel as the brakes malfunctioned, causing the vehicle to hit the roadside and turn upside down.

The fatalities were identified as Simporiano Rubio, Mary Hazel Monion, Milagros Maghanap, Alfredo Baja, and Marjun Senok.

Located just five minutes across Davao City, Samal Island is known for its beaches and inland resorts.

Aside from the pumpboats that ferry passengers between Davao City and Samal Island, the route is also serviced by the Island City Express bus firm whose units usually take the barge to reach its destination. – With Cecille Suerte Felipe