2 women die after coconut tree falls on them

LINAMON, Lanao del Norte, Philippines — Two women died on the spot as a coconut tree fell and threw them off the motorcycle they were riding at Purok 3 here around 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 26.

According to police, Lorna Paradero, 24, and Julie Flor Tanggaro, a student, were on their way to Sitio Tinago, Robocon here when a strong wind caused a coconut tree to fall on the road, throwing them off the motorcycle.

Witnesses said the motorcycle driver, Emanuel Pelarion, did not immediately notice that his two passengers had already thrown off.

But once he realized they were no longer behind him, he parked his motorcycle and walked back to find them lifeless near the fallen tree.

Civilians said the driver appeared shocked and traumatized by the incident.

Maj. Exequel Arcayena, chief of the Linamon Municipal Police Station, sent a rescue team to the area.

Dr. Gemma Deano, municipal health officer, said the women suffered broken spines and head fractures from their fall.

Still in a state of shock, Pelario was given first aid by the medics inside their ambulance. But he could not yet give details about what happened.

(Editor: Alexander T. Magno)