Driver in Quiot mini-bus accident released by cops

CEBU, Philippines - The driver who drove the mini-bus that fell down a cliff in Barangay Quiot and injured some 40 passengers was released from police custody last Thursday afternoon.

SPO1 Dionisio Galo from the Traffic Patrol Group of the Cebu City Police Office, the investigator of the case, said they had no choice but to release Cristiniano Palabrica, 44.

Galo said not a single complainant appeared before their office since last Wednesday morning’s incident to lodge a complaint against the driver. Moreover, the mother of 12-year-old Carla Ebrado, one of the victims, went to their office and said she has no intention of filing a case against Palabrica.

“She just went to check on the suspect and informed us that she will not file a case since they were well taken care of by the barangay,” said Galo.

However, the traffic investigator pointed it out that the victims can still go after and file a case against Palabrica even if he has already been released.

Galo said 36 persons were injured in the incident. Should all of them file a case, Palabrica may face 36 counts of reckless imprudence resulting to multiple physical injuries, he added.

“Dili man ni as one ang pag-file og case. Each victim may file separate cases against Palabrica,” said Galo.

Palabrica drove a mini-bus owned by Barangay Basak-Pardo, which was carrying 41 passengers, mostly kids and teenagers, when it plunged 20 feet down a cliff in San Carlos Heights, Barangay Quiot.

The children were supposed to attend a seminar in the Scalabrini Retreat House and would return home in the afternoon.

Palabrica was negotiating an uphill portion when he lost control of the vehicle. The vehicle lost traction then moved backwards until it fell down the cliff.

All victims survived with minor fractures and bruises.

The driver admitted being at fault, but added he was not being reckless as his family was also riding the vehicle. (FREEMAN)