Tragic Bus Collision in the Philippines Claims Ten Lives

Authorities report that a bus driver fell asleep at the wheel, leading to the fatal accident during a busy travel day.

In a tragic incident on the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway, ten individuals lost their lives and more than 30 others sustained injuries after a bus collided with multiple vehicles at a toll gate. The driver, who has been detained, stated that he fell asleep while driving, according to police sources. Among the deceased are four children, highlighting the heartbreaking nature of the accident which occurred around Labour Day when many families were on the road.

The Department of Transportation has since suspended operations of Solid North Bus, the company that owned the vehicle involved in the crash, and the bus driver could potentially face charges of "reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicides." Alongside the driver, the bus conductor has also been taken into custody.

In a post on Facebook, the Philippine Red Cross confirmed that the crash also involved three sports utility vehicles and a container truck, offering food and aid to those hospitalized due to the accident.

Unfortunately, deadly bus accidents are a recurring issue in the Philippines. Recent reports have highlighted drug use among bus drivers, although it remains unclear if this contributed to Thursday’s tragedy. In a proactive measure, Transport Secretary Vince Dizon announced he would meet with representatives from almost 30 different bus companies to address safety concerns and drug testing following the recent series of accidents.

In early 2023, another tragic event occurred when a bus’s brakes failed, resulting in the deaths of 17 passengers as it plunged into a ravine on a notorious route known for its dangers.