Passengers scamper as cab catches fire

CEBU, Philippines - A multicab caught fire moments after fuelling up at a gasoline station in Sitio Sangi, Barangay Pajo, Lapu-Lapu City around 7 a.m. yesterday.

Fire investigators said the fire was due to “lose electrical connection.”

Crispin Tampus, driver of the yellow multicab with plate number GXF 472, sustained wounds on his right hand.

Fire Officer 1 Abdulla Ibra of Lapu-Lapu City Fire Department said Tampus reportedly just came from picking up passengers at the Tamiya Terminal in Barangay Basak going to Mandaue City when he stopped over to gas up.

After the driver started the engine, he noticed a smell of burning material from his seat.

A jeepney dispatcher called the driver’s attention, saying that there was something burning below his seat.

The passengers then scampered their way out of the multicab as the fire started.

Ibra said according to accounts from the residents, the abandoned vehicle swerved to the center island and blocked the road.

Half of the multicab was burned, according to Ibra, while the damage was pegged at P30,000.

Further investigation revealed a cable wire lining through the driver’s seat may have snapped and created the fire.

Tampus got second-degree burns and was rushed to Lapu-Lapu City District Hospital for medication.  (FREEMAN)