Death toll in Cebu road tragedy rises to 13

MANILA, Philippines - The death toll in a road accident involving a minibus and a trailer truck in Cebu rose to 13 Saturday noon. Visayas-based Bombo Radyo reported that as of noon, the fatalities included a 10-year-old child and the drivers of both vehicles involved in the accident. An initial list identified 11 of the fatalities as Alfred Chan; Nora Pacubas and 10-year-old daughter Charlene; Chunie Caban; Rodrigo Laña; Warren Aleser; Nestor Omilgo; Allan Omilgo; Jasmin Hasma; bus driver Aladin Lawit; and truck driver Alipio Quiber. The victims were rushed to the South General Hospital, which is near the scene of the accident. At least five passengers were reported injured. Investigation showed the bus was carrying 20 passengers and heading for Cebu City from Sibunga town when the incident happened. The bus was overtaking another vehicle when it strayed into the lane of the truck. Bus operator Eladio Pelalhoy promised he would provide assistance to the victims. Earlier, Press Secretary Cerge Remonde asked the Department of Social Welfare and Development to extend assistance to the victims as well. - GMANews.TV