Tarlac expressway mishap driver tests positive for drugs

MANILA, Philippines — The driver of a van that figured in an accident along the Central Luzon Link Expressway in Tarlac City on Tuesday tested positive for drugs, police said.

Lt. Col. Neil Rainier Mercado, chief of the Tarlac City police, yesterday said the urine sample of the suspect tested positive for marijuana and shabu.

Mercado did not identify the driver, who was set to undergo inquest proceedings for reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide, multiple physical injuries and damage to property as well as violation of Republic Act 10586 or the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act.

The van was headed toward Cabanatuan City in Nueva Ecija when the driver reportedly lost control of the wheel, causing the vehicle to crash into a concrete barrier and a metal fence in Barangay Balingcanaway.

The van’s passengers told probers that the driver was speeding.

Five people were killed while nine others were injured in the incident.

Truck rams jeepney; 1 dead

Meanwhile, in Batangas, a jeepney driver was killed while his 12 passengers were injured after they were rammed by a truck in Cuenca town yesterday morning.

The jeepney was traveling along the highway in Barangay Ibabao when it collided with the truck at past 4 a.m., according to the municipal police.

Witnesses said the truck swerved, causing it to hit the jeepney. Both vehicles sustained heavy damage.

The jeepney driver, identified only as Reynaldo, was declared dead on arrival at the Martin Marasigan District Hospital where some of the passengers were taken for treatment of injuries.

The truck driver, identified only as Renato, 48, fled after the incident. He was arrested in a follow-up operation before noon.