Soldier dead, 2 others hurt in van collision in Isabela

GAMU, Isabela –– An Army soldier died while his companion is in a critical condition after their private van crashed into a wing van-type truck along the national highway here on Friday morning, police said.

Police Captain Frances Littaua, Isabela police spokesperson, identified the fatality as Army Staff Sgt. Magno Taguitag, 38, of Kalinga Province, and the injured as Cpl. Rommel Gamboa, 28, of Zamboanga City.

Both soldiers were assigned at the Camp Melchor Dela Cruz in this town.

Taguitag was declared dead on arrival at the Faustino Dy Sr. Memorial Hospital in Ilagan City.

Also hurt was Antonio Pero, 38, driver of the truck. He was brought to the hospital for treatment.

The soldiers were on their way to Naguilian town while onboard their van when they collided head-on with the wing van-type truck on the other lane in Barangay Upi.

Pero is facing charges for reckless imprudence resulting in homicide and serious physical injuries, police said. Villamor Visaya Jr./lzb