SILAY CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL — A tree-planting activity meant to help preserve the environment ended in tragedy Friday morning, as a mini dump truck carrying 23 Silay City government employees overturned in a remote area of Barangay Guimbalaon, leaving seven dead and 16 injured.
Authorities confirmed that the victims were returning from Sitio Lantawan in Barangay Patag after participating in an environmental initiative when the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle, causing it to tip over on a cemented portion of the road in Sitio San Juan.
The fatalities have been identified as:
- Alexander Balili, 62
- Rafael Jardiolin Jr., 57
- Eldie Naguita, 65
- Richer Dimson, 52
- Leonillo Jerson, 38
- Marlon Amarado, 36
- Jayme Bangis, 60
All were personnel of the local government who had volunteered for the environmental mission.
The truck driver, Hernane Masa, is now under investigation following initial findings that he lost control of the steering wheel moments before the crash.
Silay City Mayor Joedith Gallego issued an official statement expressing deep sorrow over the tragedy:
“This heartbreaking incident has cast a shadow over our city. These were dedicated individuals who had just given their time and energy for a noble cause—protecting our environment.”
The mayor added that the city government is working closely with law enforcement, disaster response units, and healthcare providers to ensure the injured receive full medical support and that families of the victims are given the financial and emotional assistance they need.
“This is a time of grief for all Silaynons. We mourn together, and we promise to stand by the families of those we lost,” Gallego said.
He also gave assurances that a full investigation will be launched to determine the exact circumstances behind the crash.
“We are committed to uncovering the truth behind this incident. Accountability must be established, and we will take every step necessary to ensure that such a tragedy does not happen again.”
As the city reels from the devastating loss, calls for improved transport safety protocols for government workers have begun to surface, underscoring the need to prioritize not just service, but safety in public duties.