THE remains of eight government workers and a student intern killed in an accident lie at the Villareal Gymnasium in Bayawan City, Negros Oriental starting Thursday, Feb. 5. (Photo via Kuya Randy/K5 News FM)
BACOLOD CITY – Bayawan City in Negros Oriental is holding a wake for eight city government employees and a student intern killed in a road accident here on Wednesday, Feb. 4.
Their remains lie at the Villareal gymnasium in Bayawan City starting Thursday, Feb. 5.
Mayor John Raymond Jr., in a media interview, said that a Mass and a necrological service were held for the victims on Thursday.
The city government set the wake at the gymnasium to enable colleagues and friends of the victims to visit and pay tribute before their remains are taken to their homes.
Raymond assured that the city government will extend all the necessary assistance to the victims’ families. “We will adjust for them. They can stay if they want to continue the wake at the gym, or bring them to their homes,” he added.
Authorities are still probing the cause of the accident. The vehicle remains in the area.
Raymond said the truck was just repaired last December.
The mayor said the victims were four mechanics, two drivers, two helpers, and an intern, and knew the condition of the vehicle before using it. He said that they will have to check why the intern was able to join them.
Gov. Manuel “Chaco” Sagarbarria said the victims’ faithful service, hard work, and dedication to Negros Oriental and Bayawan City will never be forgotten.
“As one province, we unite in prayer, trusting in God's grace and honoring the lives of the departed by continuing their mission of service with love and compassion,” the governor said in a statement.
Negros Oriental third district Rep. Janice Degamo was deeply saddened by the tragic incident.
“My heart is heavy as nine precious lives were lost. This is an unprecedented tragedy that has brought immense grief to our community,” she said in a statement.
She instructed her staff at the Bayawan City District Office to personally visit the families of the victims and extend burial assistance.