Fourteen Lives Lost in Van-Truck Collision in North Cotabato

UPDATE

17 dead in Cotabato road accident - 04:45 AM March 26, 202

A tragic traffic accident took place on March 25, 2024, in Antipas, North Cotabato, resulting in the loss of 14 lives. The incident occurred when a passenger van collided with a dump truck carrying gravel, causing the van to ignite and resulting in fatalities. Additionally, three other individuals sustained injuries in this devastating event.

The families of the victims will receive insurance claims of up to P200,000 through the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB). Our deepest sympathies are with those affected by this tragic occurrence. We hope they find strength and solace during this challenging period.

On Tuesday, residents gather at the location where 17 individuals lost their lives following a collision between a dump truck and a passenger van in Antipas, North Cotabato on March 25. (Photos provided by LGU Antipas)

A devastating accident in Antipas, North Cotabato claimed the lives of at least 14 people just prior to 1 p.m. on Monday, March 25. The unfortunate event unfolded when a dump truck, laden with gravel and sand, lost control and struck a passenger van, causing the van to ignite.

An additional three individuals were reported to have been injured in this tragic event. The van was making its way to Kidapawan City, and the dump truck was on its way to Antipas at the time. The accident took place roughly 10 kilometers from the town's main hub.

Most of the victims, who were from Antipas, sadly died in the blaze. Some were thrown from the van due to the collision and were found scattered on the roadway.

As of 6:10 p.m. on Monday, municipal law enforcement was still gathering information about the accident and had not yet confirmed if there were any survivors, as reported by Tupas. The passenger van, which had just left the Antipas town terminal and was en route to Kidapawan City, the capital of Cotabato province, was hit by a dump truck coming from the opposite direction on the steep road in Barangay Luhong, according to Tupas.

The accident occurred approximately 10 kilometers from the town's bus terminal, as stated by Tupas. The dump truck was driven by Nasiad, who had two other people with him: his helper, 27-year-old Wilmark Josil Panoy, and a passenger named Gregorio Wallace Casiño. The police have not yet reported on the status of these individuals, whether they were injured or remained unharmed.