At least five people were killed, and more than 30 others were injured after a six-wheeler dump truck overturned along a curved portion of the Andres Acop Cosalan National Road in Kabayan, Benguet, on Thursday morning, May 28, local authorities said.
In a press release, the Kabayan Local Government Unit confirmed that the incident occurred in Sitio Guay, Barangay Poblacion, after the vehicle reportedly suffered a mechanical failure while descending a curved road.
The truck, bearing plate number CAP 6106, was traveling from Bauko, Mountain Province, and was bound for Nueva Vizcaya when it overturned at around 11:20 a.m., according to initial police findings. It was carrying more than 30 passengers who were reportedly en route to attend a graduation and wedding celebration.
Emergency responders from the Kabayan Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and Rural Health Unit immediately responded to the scene and conducted rescue operations.
Initial casualty reports confirmed 10 passengers sustained serious injuries, including head trauma and fractures, and were transported to the Dennis Molintas District Hospital in Bokod, Benguet. Twelve others suffered minor injuries and were treated at the Kabayan Rural Health Unit, while another 12 passengers were reported unharmed and temporarily accommodated in local evacuation areas.
Authorities confirmed five fatalities, including a three-year-old boy, an 11-year-old boy, a 49-year-old man, and two adult males whose identities are still being verified. Postmortem examinations are ongoing as officials continue efforts to notify families.
Kabayan MDRRMO said all casualties were promptly referred for medical care, while coordination with neighboring municipalities of Bokod and Buguias provided additional support during rescue operations.
Officials have reminded motorists to ensure vehicle roadworthiness and exercise caution, particularly on mountainous and curved roads, to prevent similar accidents. Authorities also urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information as the investigation continues.
