Binay backup vehicle falls into ravine; 3 injured

MANILA, Philippines - A photographer and two security aides of Vice President Jejomar Binay sustained injuries after the backup vehicle they were riding fell into a ravine on a highway near the Banaue town proper in Ifugao yesterday morning, according to Binay’s spokesman Joey Salgado.

In a text message, Salgado said the three victims, including photographer Roman Campita, were rushed to the Good News Clinic and Hospital where they received immediate medical attention.

Salgado said Campita would be brought to Manila due to a shoulder injury.

He said the Toyota Fortuner boarded by the victims was cruising the highway in Barangay Mahhung, Banaue town when it fell into the 15-meter deep ravine and landed in a creek.

Salgado said the other victims were Sgt. Danilo Tamo, who was driving the Toyota Fortuner, and Cpl. Alexander Solis, who both suffered bruises. He said Sgt. Alexander Sicat was unhurt.

Binay and his convoy were on their way to Banaue to turn over medical equipment and wheelchairs and inaugurate the senior citizens’ affairs office there when the mishap happened.

Salgado said Binay stopped his convoy and checked the victims.

He said Binay proceeded to Banaue when he was told that ambulance was getting near the accident site.

“After the event in Banaue, he (Binay) visited them in the hospital,” he said.

Last Thursday, Binay led the turnover of four wheelchairs, two sphygmomanometers, two nebulizers and a stethoscope to Mayor Anthony Wooden for the use of senior citizens in Tadian town in Mt. Province. – With Artemio Dumlao, Charlie Lagasca

From Tadian, Binay proceeded to Bauko town where he attended the Begnas Festival and was declared an “adopted son” of the municipality.