Sinas orders probe into Kalinga fatal car accident, strict enforcement vs overloading

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police General Debold Sinas on Monday ordered a thorough investigation into the death of 13 people after their SUV plunged into an irrigation canal in Tabuk City, Kalinga on Sunday.

In a statement, Sinas reminded motorists to strictly observe load limits and maximum passenger capacity, as well as physical distancing inside public and private vehicles.

Sinas also directed the PNP Highway Patrol Group and all local police to strictly enforce land transportation regulations against overloading and other unsafe driving practices.

Based on the report of PNP Cordillera, the driver of Ford Everest SUV, identified as Soy Lope Agtula, was a personnel of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology assigned in Bontoc, Mountain Province.

Initial investigation showed that the vehicle came from Tadian, Mountain Province and was heading to Bulo Lake.

At least 15 people were aboard the SUV, including seven children and eight adults, according to the PNP.

As they reached a curved portion of the road, the PNP said the SUV slipped and fell into the irrigation canal and submerged.

Rescuers rushed 11 victims to the Mija Kim Medical Center but were declared dead on arrival, while two others were brought to the Kalinga Provincial Hospital where they were also pronounced dead.

Two survivors are now in stable condition, the PNP said.

"I extend my deepest sympathy to the family of these victims. May their souls be at peace and I hope that our Creator brings you the much-needed peace during this trying times,” Sinas said.—AOL, GMA News