Negros Oriental mourns nine killed in truck crash

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The provincial government of Negros Oriental is mourning the loss of nine individuals who died in a tragic accident in Bayawan City on Wednesday.

Governor Manuel “Chaco” Sagarbarria extended his deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims during this time of grief.

“Their faithful service, hard work, and dedication to Negros Oriental and Bayawan City will never be forgotten,” Sagarbarria said.

He also offered prayers for strength, comfort, healing, and hope to those left behind.

“As one province, we unite in prayer, trusting in God’s grace and honoring the lives of the departed by continuing their mission of service with love and compassion,” the governor said in a statement.

Eight government workers and a student intern were killed after a mini dump truck they were riding fell off a cliff and landed near a river in Barangay Kalamtukan.

The group had just finished delivering gasoline to a remote village when the accident occurred.

Although initial reports suggested the truck may have lost control while descending a steep road, authorities have not confirmed the cause.

Police Capt. Stephen Polinar, spokesperson of the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (Norppo), said the vehicle remains at the scene pending further investigation.

Bayawan City Mayor John Raymond Jr., in a radio interview, said the truck had been recently repaired and was operational.

He confirmed the victims included four mechanics, two drivers, two helpers, and a student intern.

Raymond said the individuals were likely familiar with the truck’s condition, which raises questions about the circumstances of the crash.

He added that the city will look into how and why the intern was allowed to join the trip.

The mayor assured the families that the city government will provide necessary assistance.

The remains of the nine victims, who worked for the City Agriculture Office–Engineering Division (CAO-ED), were brought to a gymnasium in Bayawan City for a necrological service.

They will later be brought to their respective homes for funeral wakes.

Police identified the victims as Diomedes Canoy, Kervin Andog, Larry Llamos, Ronel Cabasag, Jonathan Hamor, Jovanie Babor, Jonaryl Caguisa, Egmedio Arnaiz (the driver), and Warren Aseñas, a student intern.

Negros Oriental 3rd District Rep. Janice Degamo also expressed her condolences over the tragedy.

“My heart is heavy as nine precious lives were lost. This is an unprecedented tragedy that has brought immense grief to our community,” Degamo said.

She offered her sympathies to the victims’ families and the local government of Bayawan.

“No words can truly ease the pain of this loss, but please know that you are not alone in this difficult time,” she added.

Degamo said she instructed her Bayawan City District Office staff to personally visit the families and provide burial assistance.