2 killed as tricycle gets hit by bus

STO. DOMINGO, Ilocos Sur — Two women were killed on Thursday after the tricycle they were riding was hit by a passenger bus along the national highway in Barangay San Pablo, Sto. Domingo, Ilocos Sur.

Police identified the victims only as Michelle of Pagburnayan, Vigan City, and Grace of Bongtolan, also in Vigan.

The two were passengers in a tricycle driven by Claro Tapaya Sr., 65, a resident of Barangay Paras, Sto. Domingo.

Based on CCTV footage and police investigation, the tricycle had initially stopped along the eastern shoulder of the road, facing north. When the road cleared, Tapaya reportedly attempted a U-turn, failing to notice a Florida passenger bus approaching from the south.

The bus, bearing plate number NBS 3563, was driven by Julius Jardinero, 42, of Barangay Pagsanaan, Magsingal, Ilocos Sur.

The collision left all three tricycle occupants with severe injuries. Responding personnel from the PNP, Bureau of Fire Protection, and the local Rural Health Unit rushed them to Magsingal District Hospital.

However, Michelle and Grace were declared dead on arrival by attending physician Dr. Steve Arellano. The tricycle driver is still undergoing medical treatment.

The bus driver and its passengers were unharmed.

Both vehicles sustained damages. Authorities are still determining the cost of repairs. The vehicles have been brought to the Sto. Domingo Police Station for documentation and proper disposition.