A 22-wheeler truck loaded with gravel rammed around 20 concrete barriers and caused heavy traffic along the southbound lane of C5 Road near the Bagong Ilog Flyover in Pasig City early Tuesday, April 8.
Authorities said the incident occurred at around 1:38 a.m., and the truck remained on the road for about five hours, leaving two lanes impassable to vehicles.
The truck was reportedly going to Naic, Cavite, to deliver the gravel when its right front tire allegedly burst, causing the driver to lose control.
The truck’s bumper was damaged and its diesel tank began leaking, which authorities responded to immediately to contain the situation.
As a result, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) reported that by 5:50 a.m., traffic congestion had stretched from C5 Road to Katipunan Avenue and Ortigas Avenue.
Early commuters expressed frustration, saying they were delayed on their way to work and other scheduled activities.
According to the MMDA, a forklift was needed to remove the truck, which arrived at around 6 a.m.
By 7 a.m., the truck had been moved to the roadside, and both previously closed lanes were reopened. However, traffic remained heavy due to ongoing clearing operations to remove the shattered concrete barriers and to prevent more accidents from happening.
No injuries were reported. (Vincent Brian Gutierrez)