Three elementary school students were killed instantly when a truck plowed into them on Sayre Highway in Barangay Cagaya, San Fernando, Bukidnon at 1:30 p.m. on January 21.
The victims were identified as Jennylun Dawongan, 11, a Grade 5 student; Gelaica Batawan, 7, a Grade 2 student; and her 5-year-old sibling, also in Grade 2. All attended Cagaya Elementary School, according to PMAJ Christian Serdeña, officer-in-charge of the San Fernando Municipal Police Station.
The children were returning to their school when the truck, driven by Reynaldo Camaso, hit them. They suffered fatal injuries, leading to their immediate deaths.
In an interview with Brigada Valencia, Camaso admitted he fell asleep behind the wheel, causing the crash. He also confessed to fleeing the scene out of fear of retaliation from the victims’ families. Camaso later surrendered to authorities.
The San Fernando police have filed charges of reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicides against Camaso, who is currently detained.
Meanwhile, the victims’ families are appealing for financial assistance, stating they lack the resources to cover burial expenses for the three children.
This tragic incident has sparked outrage among residents, raising concerns over road safety and the responsibilities of drivers.
