Med rep charged for deaths in Boljoon

CEBU, Philippines - A criminal complaint for reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide was filed yesterday before the Cebu Provincial Prosecutor's Office against the medical representative who drove a wayward Toyota Vios Sedan that killed three high school students in Boljoon last Thursday.

Al-Dhiener Hadjula Sanaani, 26, a resident of Barangay Sambag 2, Cebu City, waived his right to avail of a preliminary investigation and opted to answer the case in court.

Assistant provincial prosecutor Rustom Presas has recommended P30,000 bail for Sanaani's temporary liberty.

Presas explained that the case is supposed to be filed with the Municipal Circuit Trial Court (MCTC) but since minors were involved the jurisdiction falls under the Regional Trial Court (RTC).

"The information of the case will be filed before the RTC in Argao," he said.

Judy Ann Lomera, 18; Cristy Marie Estella, 18; and Joanne Marie Romero, 16, all fourth year high school students of Boljoon National High School died of serious injuries after the car driven by Sanaani hit them. Three other high school students, Nice Ancheta, 15; Melissa Mendez, 14; and Kynth Marie Mendez, were also injured during the accident.

The students were walking on their way home from school along the bridge when the wayward sedan hit them.

The vehicle was registered under the name of Sanaani's companion, Kristine Joyce Batucan, 26, of Barangay Guadalupe, Cebu City.

SPO2 Fernan Romero, 48, assigned at Caloocan City Police Station, father of Joanne Marie told the media that they wanted justice for his daughter's death.

Romero said he is not open for possible settlement and vowed to pursue the case until justice is served.

Boljoon police chief, Insp. Dexter Basirgo, said the case will be filed in Argao. He vowed to present the accused before the RTC as soon as he is released from the hospital. (FREEMAN)