17 die as truck rams van in Cotabato

COTABATO CITY, Philippines — At least 17 people died while four others were injured in a collision involving a dump truck and a utility van in Antipas, Cotabato yesterday afternoon.

Six of the fatalities were identified as Kimberly Shane Armada, Nonoy Bunda, Irish Lopez, Ryse Vince Lopez, Coco Pojas and Jenivive Vicente.

Police said the six died instantly while three others were rushed to a hospital for treatment of burns and injuries.

The truck, which was loaded with construction materials, was traveling down the highway in Barangay Luhong when it lost its brakes, according to Capt. Godofredo Tupas II, Antipas police chief.

The truck driver reportedly lost control of the wheel, causing it to hit the van.

Witnesses said the truck was speeding.

Both vehicles rolled over and fell into a flood control canal.

The van burst into flames and the truck also caught fire.

Tupas said the area was steep and winding. He said vehicular accidents are common in the area.

Investigation is ongoing.