More cops on Marilaque after fatal 'Superman' stunt

More police personnel will be deployed along Marilaque Highway in Tanay, Rizal after the fatal crash that claimed the life of one motorcycle rider while performing a dangerous stunt dubbed the "Superman".

In Joseph Morong’s Tuesday report on “24 Oras,” video shows two riders attempting a dangerous maneuver become entangled, lost control, and crashed into bystanders and other motorcycles parked on the side of the road in Sitio Manukan Sunday afternoon.

Before the fatal accident, the two men were recorded performing the “Superman” technique, an exhibition where the riders would lie prone on the seat and  briefly raise their legs while traveling at high speed along the curved road.

John Louie Arguelles, one of the two motorcycle riders, was brought to the hospital but was declared dead on arrival.

Meanwhile, six other individuals sustained injuries. 

According to the police investigation, Arguellas has no driver’s license.

The police also said the injured individuals and Arguelles’ family will not file charges against Rico Buyawan, the other motorcycle rider who survived the accident.

The Highway Patrol Group said there are five road sections along Marilaque Highway where motorcycle riders perform exhibitions so the police face challenges in chasing after them.

These road sections include the “Devil’s Corner,” which is also in Tanay.

Police Lieutenant Colonel Israel Mori, HPG Region IV-A chief, said motorcycle riders use codes to avoid authorities.

The HPG said one accident occurs along the Marilaque Highway daily. This month alone,  13 accidents have been recorded.

To avoid similar accidents, the HPG said it will increase its personnel deployment, apart from the Tanay Police.

The HPG warned motorists that they could face criminal charges if they engage in racing along the Marilaque Highway.

According to Police Lieutenant Colonel Norman Cas-oy, Tanay Police chief, the town government is looking into implementing an ordinance prohibiting bystanders along the road.

Meanwhile, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) met with the HPG regarding the matter and ordered Buyawan to explain why his driver’s license should not be suspended.

Some motorcycle riders said checkpoints should be placed along the highway to deter future incidents.

They also said traffic violators should be arrested and meted traffic violation tickets. According to them, repeat offenders should have their driver’s license revoked. —Mariel Celine Serquiña/RF, GMA Integrated News