Jeepney falls into a ditch: 14 teachers, 4 pupils, 2 others hurt

CEBU, Philippines - Twenty passengers---14 of them teachers, four pupils and two men---were injured when their jeepney fell into a ditch in Silay City, Negros Occidental Monday afternoon, police said.

Superintendent Rosauro Francisco Jr., Silay City Police chief, said the injured passengers were brought to the Teresita L. Jalandoni Provincial Hospital, also in this city, for minor injuries and hematoma. They were later declared safe already.

The teachers were from the Don Homero Tanpinco Elementary School and, who together with the other passengers, were residents of the city's Brgys. Kapitan Ramon, E. Lopez, Mambulac and Hawaiian.

Investigation showed that the jeepney, driven by Danilo Nocon, 48, was heading west of the curved road at Hacienda Daginding Road in Brgy. Rizal, when its steering wheel reportedly malfunctioned, causing it to veer to the right of the road and fall into a ditch.

Francisco said jeepney owner Ma. Lourdes Nocon, 40, helped provide with the medical needs of the victims, and has talked with the principal of the school about a settlement.

The driver was released Tuesday after the reglamentary period for his detention had lapsed, but the vehicle remained in custody of the Silay Police, Francisco added.  (FREEMAN)