Train rams jeepney; 1 dead, 11 hurt

A man was killed while 11 others were injured when the passenger jeepney they were riding was rammed by a train in Sta. Ana Monday night.

The Western Police District Traffic Division identified the fatality as Philip Lapilla, 25. He died while being rushed to the Philippine General Hospital.

Those injured were identified as Lemuel Casala, Robinor Rosa Rande, 21; Ma. Cecilia Pilapil; Rosemarie Coquiwa, 23; Juanito Lahuerte; Homer Daeda; Jocelyn Angeles, 24; Myrna Canova; Rachel Parin; Glendalyn Tamura; and Jayvee Trinidad.

They were rushed to the PGH and the Ospital ng Maynila for treatment.

Initial police investigation showed that the victims were aboard the Guadalupe-Taft jeepney (TWE-449) driven by Victorio Lupina who tried to beat the train at about 6:30 p.m. at the railroad crossing along San Andres Bukid.

The south-bound train, operated by Bayani Maningding, slowed down but it still hit the jeepney and dragged it some 10 meters before stopping.

Manila Police are still tracking down Maningding and Lupina for investigation. Both men fled the scene after the incident, police said.

President Arroyo visited the victims at the two hospitals to extend her assistance following the incident. – Mike Frialde