Death toll in Antique bus crash climbs to 19

MANILA, Philippines — The number of people who died following the accident involving a Ceres bus that fell into a ravine along Hamtic town in Antique rose to 19, according to the Antique Provincial Government.

Antique Governor Rhodora Cadiao said on Monday that the latest addition brings the total from 18 to 19, but no other details were provided on the latest casualty.

Earlier, Cadiao reported that about 16 persons died on the spot after the accident, one died in the hospital on Wednesday morning, and another one in the evening. The report likewise revealed that most of the victims were mostly from Antique and two other foreigners.

Dashcam retrieved

Aside from the death toll, Cadiao likewise revealed that they were able to secure the dashcam and memory card from Vallacar Transport.

“We need a thorough investigation once the memory card is handed over to us. I appeal to Police Col. Abran to facilitate the return of the equipment and seek assistance from the NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) to delve into the specifics of what transpired with the Ceres bus. We must scrutinize every angle to understand the reasons behind this tragedy,” Cadiao said in a statement.

However, Jane Marquez, media relations officer of Vallacar, disclosed that the dashcam is no longer working. Citing Marquez, Cadiao also said that the company is withholding the damaged equipment, as well as the “compromised memory card containing vital information about the incident.”

“Let’s examine every aspect; what occurred on December 5, whether it was a mechanical issue or related to road design. We need a comprehensive understanding,” the governor stressed.

She further highlighted the need for bus companies to invest in high-quality equipment, in preparation for unforeseen accidents.

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