33 injured in bus-SUV collision on NLEX

MEYCAUAYAN CITY, Bulacan , Philippines – At least 33 persons were injured when a passenger bus and sport utility vehicle collided on the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) at around 11 p.m. on Monday.

Police said the victims were rushed to the Montefalco Hospital here, Bulacan Medical Mission Group Hospital in Bocaue town and Bulacan Medical Center in Malolos City.

SPO4 Norly Majan of the Meycauayan City police said the victims suffered minor injuries.

Investigators said a Santrans bus plying the Manila-Sapang Palay route was rear-ended by a speeding Nissan Pathfinder near the Meycauayan toll plaza on the northbound lane of NLEX.

The bus driver was identified as Bernardo Arigildo Jr., a resident of Norzagaray town. He fled after being treated at the Montefalco Hospital.

Reynaldo Lovino Jr., driver of the Nissan Pathfinder, refused to give any statement.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board ordered a 30-day suspension of the franchise of the bus firm.