Ex-Bomber dies in road mishap

LIPA CITY , Philippines   – A 23-year–old former Jose Rizal University player, who also suited up in Philippine Basketball League (PBL), was killed while his companion was injured in a motorcycle road accident in Lipa City early morning Monday, police said.

Superintendent Francisco Rodriguez, Lipa City police chief identified the fatality as Jason Nocom, a resident of Nueve de Pebrero, Mandaluyong City and a former player of JRU and Oracle in the PBL.

According to report, Nocom was a passenger on a Honda Wave motorcycle (WO-3318) driven by Jeffrey Engelbert Suguitan, 23. They were heading towards Lipa City from Mataas na Kahoy when the accident occurred around 12:15 a.m.

Witnesses said the victims were driving along the national highway in Purok 4, Barangay Tambo when Suguitan lost control of the motorcycle which slammed into a tree.

Nocom on the spot after suffering massive head injuries while Suguitan was rushed to Mary Mediatriz Hospital for medical treatment. Both were not wearing protective helmets when the accident happened.

The 6-foot-4 Nocom remains were transferred from Batangas to the Pacific Funeral Homes in Mandaluyong last night.

Nocom averaged six points and five rebounds in three seasons with Jose Rizal U.

“We are saddened by the death of Jayson Nocom. NCAA will miss a player with determination and passion,” said NCAA league policy board president and San Beda rector Fr. Mat de Jesus, OSB, in a statement. – Arnell Ozaeta