38 injured as 2 buses collide in Tagum, Davao del Norte

DAVAO CITY — Thirty-eight people were hurt when two buses collided along the Daang-Maharlika Highway on Sunday afternoon, an accident that sent all passengers to the hospital, the management said.

The Davao Metro Shuttle (DMS) management confirmed that the collision occurred at around 3:30 p.m Sunday.

The bus firm is owned by former Tagum City Mayor Rey Uy.

According to the management, the DMS Bus No. 386, which was en route to Tagum City, suddenly changed its direction when a motorcycle suddenly crossed its path in Tiongco Village in Barangay Canocotan.

“To avoid hitting the motorcycle, the bus driver suddenly swerved on a road that was slippery due to the heavy rains,” the compnay said.

The bus swerved uncontrollably and consequently, colliding with DMS Bus No. 53 which was coming from an opposite direction.

The DMS management said it had already informed authorities about the accident and assured them of their full cooperation in the investigation.

DMS management added that all injured employees and passengers were taken to the hospital, saying their well-being was its “top priority.”

The bus firm also assured the families of injured passengers of assistance until they could fully recover.

“Our sincerest apologies to our passengers who were riding in both buses,” the firm said. “We will continuously communicate with you to ensure your mental and physical recovery from this traumatic experience. And our apologies as well to those who were delayed in their travels due to the incident blocking the roads.”

The firm said that it would “implement safety measures such as speed monitoring and seminars on proper driving and bus handling” and vowed to continue to be vigilant in stressing the importance of driving safely. /atm