Truck plows into ayuda beneficiaries; 1 dead

MANILA, Philippines — A dump truck driven by a 57-year-old man who suffered a heart attack plowed into people waiting to receive their financial assistance from the city government in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan yesterday, leaving nine persons injured.

Police identified the driver as Herminio Gerona, who was pronounced dead on arrival in a hospital.

City police chief Maj. Julius Alvaro said initial investigation showed the accident occurred in front of the city hall along St. Ignacio street in Barangay Poblacion at around 7:40 a.m.

The truck, which was owned by the local government, was headed to Barangay Dulong Bayan when the accident occurred.

“The truck went straight to a tent beside the city treasury office that serves as a waiting area,” Alvaro said.

Five of those injured – Ronilo Navarro Jr., 31; Mario dela Rosa, 58; Analyn Somooc, 54; Mary Rose Eustaquio, 29, and Cecila Beramo, 57 – were taken to a hospital for treatment.