26-3-2024 (MANILA) Tragedy struck in the southern Philippines on Monday (March 25) as at least 17 individuals lost their lives in a horrific collision between a passenger van and a cargo truck, followed by a devastating blaze, according to local authorities.
The accident occurred on an accident-prone road in Antipas town, Cotabato province, leaving three others injured, reported Antipas police chief Capt. Godofredo Tupas II.
Initial investigations suggest that the 10-wheel cargo truck, laden with sand and gravel, experienced brake failure while descending a hill, leading to a collision with the passenger van, Tupas stated.
The impact of the crash and ensuing flames claimed the lives of all but one of the 18 individuals aboard the van, including the driver, Tupas informed The Associated Press in a telephone interview.
Emergency responders, including army troops, police personnel, and local residents, worked tirelessly to extract the victims from the van, many of whom suffered severe burns. The truck driver, now in police custody, will undergo investigation before potentially facing criminal charges, Tupas added.
