ONE of the ill-fated buses in Tuba, Benguet. (FB)
TUBA, Benguet – Police said Sunday, May 31, that one passenger was killed in the triple collision involving two Victory Liner buses and a Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) on Marcos Highway in Barangay Taloy Sur here on Saturday evening, May 30.
Authorities said 87 passengers were injured in the accident which occurred at 8:35 p.m. Most of them have been discharged and 13 remain confined in hospitals as of 8 a.m. Sunday.
Initial investigation said that one of the Victory Liner buses allegedly suffered a mechanical defect before colliding with another Victory Liner bus and an Isuzu MU-X SUV.
The three vehicles sustained considerable damage. The exact cause of the accident remains under investigation.
In a statement Sunday, Victory Liner expressed “profound sorrow” over the tragedy and confirmed that one passenger succumbed to injuries sustained in the accident.
“We extend our deepest condolences and heartfelt prayers to the bereaved family and loved ones. We are committed to providing the necessary assistance and support during this difficult time,” the company said.
Victory Liner said their officials, including company doctors, terminal masters, field inspectors, and emergency responders, continue to monitor and assist passengers admitted in hospitals in Agoo, La Union and Baguio City.
The company said that many of the injured passengers have been discharged and reunited with their families.
“This incident weighs heavily on all of us. While safety has always been the cornerstone of our operations, we recognize that no safety program can lessen the pain caused by the loss of a life,” said the company which apologized to passengers, their families, and affected communities.
Victory Liner said they have launched a comprehensive internal investigation and fully cooperating with law enforcement authorities and government agencies conducting separate inquiries into the incident.
The bus company said it is committed to determining all relevant facts surrounding the crash and implementing additional measures to further strengthen passenger safety.
Follow-up investigation regarding the incident continues.