NEW BATAAN, Davao de Oro — A routine journey turned into a nightmare on Thursday afternoon when a father and his two-year-old daughter sustained injuries following a motorcycle fire in Purok 7, Barangay Camanlangan, New Bataan.
The victims, identified as Bryan Paraiso, 40, and his daughter, Zynia Faith Paraiso, were en route from Mati, Davao Oriental, to Purok 12, Poblacion Monkayo, Davao de Oro, when the tragedy struck.
At approximately 1:00 PM, witnesses observed flames emanating from the moving motorcycle as it traveled along a cemented road in Barangay Fatima. The vehicle toppled over upon reaching Purok 7, spilling gasoline that ignited a sudden and intense fire.
Local authorities reported receiving a call from the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Office (MDRR) of New Bataan at 2:30 PM. Responding promptly, police officers arrived at the scene within 20 minutes to initiate an investigation.
The young child, Zynia Faith, sustained burns on various parts of her body, while Bryan Paraiso suffered burns to both hands. MDRR personnel transported the injured victims to Montevista Provincial Hospital, where they received immediate medical treatment.
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in New Bataan is now investigating the incident to determine the exact cause of the fire. Preliminary findings suggest a possible mechanical failure or fuel leak that led to the blaze.
“We constantly remind motorists to ensure their vehicles are in proper working condition to avoid similar incidents,” a spokesperson from the BFP stated.
Authorities have assured the public that further updates and a detailed spot report will be released as the investigation progresses.