SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union – Singer-actress Mary Gidget dela Llana, professionally known as Gigi de Lana, and six members of her band, “The Gigi Vibes,” and their driver sustained minor injuries in a car accident here on Sunday morning, May 14.
Police said the victims were on board a silver metallic Toyota Hi-Ace van (NGS6490), driven by Joseph George Wagan, 38, personal assistant of The Gigi Vibes, when the accident occurred at about 10:20 a.m.
Also injured were Emmanuel Cruz; Julius Traquena, 32; Jan Joseph D. Verceles, 25; Carmela Liane Cueto, 28; John Maverick Sumaylo, 31; and Mike Jesser Castillo, 29.
Police said the victims were traveling to Ilocos Norte to perform in the annual Himala sa Buhangin music and arts festival in Paoay when they figured in the accident.
The driver of the van allegedly fell asleep while driving, causing the vehicle to encroach the opposite lane and accidentally rammed a white Foton Tornado parked on the shoulder of the road.
As a result, all the occupants of the Toyota Hi-Ace sustained minor injuries. They were taken to the Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center (ITRMC) here.
Upon release of medical clearance from the ITRMC, the group continued their travel to Ilocos Norte for their show.
The band announced the accident via social media the same day.
In an official statement, the band said they met the accident at 10:20 a.m. while traveling from the Sulong Aurora event to the Himala sa Buhangin event in Ilocos Norte.
Fortunately, no one else was involved in the accident, and all issues have been resolved.
“We express our gratitude to the LGU of San Fernando La Union, the LUPPO, and Mr. Erickson Dinglasan for their assistance during this unexpected incident. Maraming Salamat Po!,” the band said.
But fans at the event said the band eventually didn't finish the show, with Gigi herself being helped off the stage by a handler.