Newly turned over PCSO ambulance figures in mishap

A newly turned over patient transport vehicle (PTV) has been rendered unserviceable after it tipped over while on its way to Catarman town, Province of Northern Samar.

The PTV is among 124 PTVs, or ambulance units, distributed to municipalities and cities in Eastern Visayas by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. in a ceremonial turnover in Ormoc City on August 18, 2025.

The ambulance tipped over in Barangay Getigo, Lope de Vega town midnight on August 18, 2025.

According to investigation done by Lope de Vega Police, the 41-year-old driver lost control of the vehicle when he avoided reportedly a carabao that suddenly crossed the road.

Due to thick fog and heavy rainfall, visibility in the area at the time was reportedly limited.

The ambulance tipped over and fell into a ditch, police further said. 

Despite the condition of the newly turned over vehicle, the driver is confirmed to be safe. 

Catarman Mayor Dianne Esidera Rosales said she has coordinated with the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) that donated the vehicles.

“Nag-collaborate sa PCSO general manager assign diri sa Northern Samar nga ini nahitabo ng incident. And with that naghatag mag assurance sa aton ang PCSO na buligan kit pag-asister para ma-claim ta man liwat ang insurance,” Rosales said. —GMA Regional TV