19 killed, 22 others hurt as truck falls into ravine in Apayao

The ill-fated Elf truck after it fell into a ravine in Gassud, Conner, Apayao on Thursday evening. (Photo courtesy of Mylz Ginez)

TUGUEGARAO CITY-Nineteen people, mostly elders, were killed after an Elf truck carrying them fell into a ravine in Conner town, Apayao province at about 7 p.m. on Thursday, police said.

The fatalities were identified as Beverly, Jason, Brenda and Imelda all surnamed Talay; Mamerto and Susan – both surnamed Milo; Amparo Aberion, 63; Domingo Asperela, 66; Pacita Dajucon; Mercy Gundan; Leticia Patay, 49; Conrado Subatan, 70; Claro Mamauag, 79; Rose and Ludalina – both surnamed Molina.

Also killed were Fermelina Dacuycuy, Rudy Pagtama, Reymundo Sosa, 79; and Margie Agustin-Pamittan, 66.

Investigators said 22 others were injured.

Police said the victims, who were from Lattut village in Conner, came from Kalinga province where they reportedly received cash and seeds assistance from the government and were heading home at the time of the accident.

Mylz Ginez of the Department of Public Works and Highways in Conner said the truck driver had lost control of the steering wheel as its brakes had malfunctioned, causing it to fall into the ravine before turning upside down.

An investigation is still ongoing and the bodies have been retrieved from the accident site in Sitio Karikitan, Barangay Gassud.