2 top execs of Metro firm killed in mishap

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga — Two top executives of a Metro Manila-based company were killed and seven others were seriously injured when their van smashed into a 10-wheeler truck along the Gapan-Olongapo-San Fernando Road in Lubao, Pam-panga last Friday.

Police identified the fatalities as Doña Maria Lim, 73, chairperson of Sterling Company, and Willy Lim Bon Jeck, 45, the firm’s senior vice president.

Injured were Lim’s eldest son Henry, 51, and four other children, Jerry, Disiary, Elvira and Dissama; family driver Noel Purisima and a certain Eddie.

The victims were en route to Manila aboard a Toyota Hi-Ace when the Bataan-bound truck swerved to the opposite lane and rammed the van.
Doña Maria Lim died on the spot due to severe head injuries, while Jeck died while being treated at the Jose B. Lingad Memorial Hospital in San Fernando, Pampanga.

Chief Superintendent Roberto Calinisan, Central Luzon police director, said the Lims had just visited relatives in Olongapo City when they met the tragedy.

The truck driver, identified as one Den-den Bayot, fled after the incident. A Subic-based firm, Handy Asia Inc., owns the truck.

Police are set to file charges of double homicide, multiple serious physical injuries and damage to property against Bayot. — Ric Sapnu