Two killed by wayward v-hire

CEBU, Philippines — A fast-moving van-for-hire that counteflowed to overtake another vehicle killed a pedestrian and one of its passengers in Barili, Cebu yesterday morning, July 26, 2023.

Seven others were also injured in the incident.

The police identified the deceased victims as Irish Omagac, 14, of Barangay Guibuangan, Barili, and Nevelle Anaba Devaras, 66, of Valencia, Bukidnon.

Investigation showed that Omagac was on her way home around 8:30 a.m. after buying cooking oil from a sari-sari store when the van driven by Francis Cortez Pagatpat, 25, of Barangay Sabang, Danao City hit her at the national highway.

The Toyota Hi-Ace Commuter van, owned by Danao City-based Rijett Car Rental Services, was reportedly traveling fast and counterflowing to overtake a car when it hit Omagac, who died on the spot.

After hitting Omagac, Pagatpat lost control of the vehicle, causing it to ram into a star apple tree, which toppled on top of the van and unto Devaras.

The police identified those injured as Pagatpat and van passengers Lilibeth Givera Devaras, 66; Kurt Josh Gevere Mangasi, 28; Kathlyn Genevere  Mangasi, 28; Kurtly Herera Mangasi, 30, all of Valencia, Bukidnon; and Antonio Edson Natividad Enriquez, 26, and Princess Dawn Sombreo Espina, 27, both of V. Rama Ave., Cebu City.

All injured victims were rushed to the Barili Infirmary Hospital for treatment. Nevelle, too, was brought there, while Omagac was brought home for pick up by a funeral parlor.

Pagatpat will be facing complaints of reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide, multiple physical injury, and damage to property — UV Intern and Romeo D. Marantal /RHM (FREEMAN)