QC gov't assures help, accountability after deadly Infanta bus crash

The Quezon City government pledged assistance and that it would pursue accountability to the victims of a bus accident in Infanta, Quezon that left one person dead and 47 hurt.

The passenger bus was transporting youths from the city to a leadership camp when the accident occurred along a mountainous portion of the Marilaque Highway in Barangay Bagong Silangan. The mishap caused the bus to fall on its side.

In a statement, the city government said it will seek justice if investigation shows any party to be liable or negligent. It said the city’s Legal Department is coordinating with the victims, their families, investigators, and other concerned agencies for possible legal action.

The local government said it immediately mobilized resources upon receiving reports of the accident to ensure prompt medical assistance. It also coordinated with the local government of Infanta, led by Mayor L.A. Ruanto, whose emergency response teams were among the first to respond to the scene.

Emergency medical teams were dispatched from the Quezon City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, with support from Barangay Bagong Silangan and nearby barangays in Batasan Hills, Holy Spirit, Payatas, and Commonwealth. The Philippine Red Cross also extended assistance.

Authorities said of the seven of the 47 persons who sustained injuries are in serious condition. Several of the victims were transferred to East Avenue Medical Center and Quezon City General Hospital for further treatment. 

One fatality was reported.

The Quezon City government said it remains in close coordination with the families of the victims and assured continued support, particularly in covering medical expenses, as they cope with the aftermath of the incident.

Initial investigation revealed the Search Gear Travel and Tours bus, a Daewoo unit with plate number UVD 253, overshot the road while traveling towards the town of Infanta, causing the bus to hit a roadside barrier and falling on its side.

Police said the bus driver, a 46-year-old man from Lian, Batangas, was unharmed and is currently detained at the Infanta custodial facility for investigation.

Authorities said buses and large vehicles are not allowed to take the Marilaque Highway. — Sherylin Untalan/RF, GMA Integrated News