Collision on Maharlika Highway Injures Fourteen
Before dawn on Saturday, May 24, a collision between a Philippine National Railways (PNR) inspection train and a passenger bus on the Maharlika Highway in Nabua, Camarines Sur left fourteen people injured. The incident involved a Mega Bus Lines Corp. bus with body number E-239, which crashed into the train while crossing at Paloyon-Nabua Crossing.
The force of the impact caused the bus to overturn onto its side. Authorities quickly responded, transporting thirteen passengers from the bus to nearby hospitals. Although the bus driver sustained injuries, he declined medical assistance. Fortunately, no one aboard the train was harmed, as it had already cleared the crossing before the collision.
Details of the Incident and Response
According to reports, the bus was carrying at least 30 passengers heading from Pasay City to Legazpi City, Albay. Meanwhile, the PNR train, manned by its personnel, was traveling from Naga City, Camarines Sur to Polangui, Albay. Following the accident, the Department of Transportation instructed the Land Transportation Office and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board to issue a show-cause order against both the bus driver and Mega Bus Lines.
This directive aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call to ensure safe travel for commuters and maintain regular train operations in the Bicol Region. Additionally, the PNR received a show-cause order to explain the absence of necessary safety measures during train operations and to implement precautions to prevent similar incidents.
Aftermath and Safety Measures
The overturned bus was promptly removed from the site, allowing train services between Naga and Legazpi to resume a few hours later. The bus driver was brought to the Nabua Municipal Police Station and has been cooperating with PNR representatives. Authorities are urging the PNR to enhance safety protocols at railway crossings to avoid future accidents.
Representatives from the bus company have been assisting the injured passengers, while police are preparing documents should the victims decide to pursue legal action. Community leaders emphasize the importance of heightened vigilance and improved safety standards to protect travelers on busy routes such as the Maharlika Highway.
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