8 hurt as truck rams jeepney

MANILA, Philippines — Eight persons, including a pregnant woman, were injured when a 14-wheeler truck rammed a passenger jeepney in Intramuros, Manila yesterday.

Among the victims were Monalisa Romero of Quiapo, Manila, who was due to give birth this month, and jeepney driver Arnulfo Mitante.

They were taken to the nearest hospital for treatment.

Lovely Joy Santiago of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority said the accident happened at the corner of Gen. Luna street and Padre Burgos Avenue.

According to traffic investigators, the passenger jeepney was on its way to Pier when the truck (RNV-776) driven by Moises Pangilinan rammed the vehicle.

The impact caused the jeepney to crash into the gutter before hitting a tree on the sidewalk. 

The truck hit an electric post, causing a traffic jam on the westbound lane of P. Burgos.

S/Sgt. John Mark Estrada of the Manila Police District Traffic Enforcement Unit said a passenger who was seated beside the driver was thrown off the jeepney.

Another passenger, Jose Malinao, 56, an employee of the Department of Labor and Employment, said he saw the truck beating the red light before it struck the jeepney.

Pangilinan is being held by police on charges of reckless imprudence resulting in multiple physical injuries.