3 soldiers die in Compostela Valley road mishap

TAGUM CITY—Three soldiers were killed when the motorcycle they were riding collided with a truck in Mabini town, Compostela Valley early Wednesday, police said.

A report from Compostela Valley police office identified the victims as Corporal Jerry Baris, and Privates First Class Renato Cabigas and Reynan Viray, members of the army’s 46th Infantry Battalion based in Pantukan town.

Investigation revealed the accident happened along the Davao-Mati road at San Antonio village around 5:45 a.m.

Police Officer 3 Jonathan Quita, Mabini police investigator, said the victims were on board a motorcycle driven by Baris heading to Pantukan when their vehicle rammed a Fuso truck which was travelling on the opposite lane.

The truck, driven by Luderick Gambong and loaded with copra, was heading to Panabo City, police said.

Police said the victims died on the scene due to severe injuries, while the truck driver surrendered to authorities.