Photo from: Pagbilao MDRRMO
LUCENA CITY — Two people were killed and 35 others were injured after a Manila-bound passenger bus plunged into a 32-foot-deep ravine Monday night in Pagbilao, Quezon, police said.
The fatalities were identified only as “Sonny,” 34, of Mercedes, Camarines Norte, and “Ian,” 31, of Jose Panganiban, Camarines Norte.
Police said the DLTB bus, driven by a 54-year-old man identified only as “Noel,” came from Daet, Camarines Norte, and was headed to Metro Manila when the accident happened at around 8 p.m.
Initial investigation showed that the bus was traversing a downhill curve along a diversion road in Barangay Silangang Malicboy when it reportedly suffered brake failure. The driver lost control of the vehicle, which veered off the road and fell into the ravine.
The force of the crash hurled passengers forward, leaving dozens with injuries of varying severity. The victims were taken to two hospitals in Lucena City for treatment.
The two fatalities were declared dead on arrival at Quezon Medical Center.
Authorities said at least eight of the injured remained confined at MMG Hospital, while the others were brought to Quezon Medical Center. Most of them were expected to be discharged after treatment.
The bus was carrying 41 passengers, along with a second driver and a conductor, police said. Two passengers had reportedly transferred to another bus earlier, while two others had already gotten off before the incident.
Police said the bus company has signified its willingness to reach an amicable settlement with the victims.