23-3-2025 (MANILA) A construction materials lorry overturned whilst negotiating a turn from the North Luzon Expressway Connector onto Ramon Magsaysay Boulevard in Sta. Mesa, Manila, resulting in the driver sustaining injuries.
Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) official Victor Baroga dismissed initial speculation about improper cargo loading, noting that the plywood cargo had been properly secured. However, he pointed to excessive speed as the likely culprit, explaining how the vehicle’s momentum, combined with its considerable weight, led to the loss of control during the turn.
The incident, captured on CCTV footage, prompted an immediate response from MMDA personnel, who assisted in extracting both the driver and passenger from the overturned vehicle. The driver, who hails from Bulacan, later claimed brake failure as the cause, though this account conflicts with earlier reports of his injuries to the thigh and shoulder, for which he received prompt hospital treatment.
“Whilst we’re thankful no pedestrians were harmed, this incident has caused significant disruption,” Baroga remarked, emphasising the importance of adhering to posted speed restrictions and traffic signage along the connector route.
The Manila District Traffic Enforcement Unit took custody of the vehicle in the early hours of Sunday morning and has launched an investigation to assess potential damages and determine appropriate charges against the driver.
