MANILA, Philippines — Thirteen persons died while 41 others were injured when a truck rolled over in San Fernando, Camarines Sur on Saturday afternoon.
Among the fatalities were a bride-to-be and the friends and relatives of the groom, who was not in the truck.
The groom reportedly stayed behind to be picked up later along with a second batch of passengers.
Seven of the fatalities died at the scene while the others died while being treated at the Bicol Medical Center in Naga City.
M/Sgt. Victor Quilao, town police chief said, the victims came from Barangay Pinamasagan for a pre-wedding ceremony to ask the hand of the bride in marriage.
On their way back to San Joaquin, hometown of the groom, the vehicle developed engine trouble as it was traveling along downhill road in Barangay Tagpocol at around 5:20 p.m.
Driver Mario Jacobo, 46, lost control of the wheel, causing the truck to slam into a tree and roll over, according to Maj. Maria Luisa Calubaquib, spokesperson for the Bicol police.
The fatalities were identified as bride-to-be Bea Locilo, Ceciliano Hinda, Ramil Serrano, Marvin Chavez, Monalita Reyman, Edcel Regodon, Agnes Farol, Aileen Pelaez, Ramona Pelaez, Pedro Pelaez, Mark Pelaez and Sherwin Mendoza.
Among the injured passengers were five minors.
As of yesterday afternoon, only six victims remained confined in the hospital.
The truck was reportedly owned by the local government.