DAVAO CITY — A tricycle driver was killed while three passengers were injured after a large balete tree suddenly uprooted and fell onto a moving “bao-bao” tricycle along Upper Ilang Road in Barangay Upper Ilang, Bunawan District late Sunday night, February 22, 2026.
According to initial reports, the incident occurred at around 10:15 p.m. while the tricycle was traveling westbound along the road. Authorities said the tree collapsed after being weakened by continuous heavy rainfall that had been affecting the area throughout the evening.
Witnesses and responders reported that the massive balete tree suddenly fell across the roadway, striking the tricycle and trapping the driver underneath the fallen trunk. The impact caused serious injuries to the passengers who were riding with him at the time of the incident.
Emergency responders from Central 911 immediately rushed to the scene and attempted to rescue the driver. Despite their efforts, the driver was declared dead after sustaining fatal injuries from the impact of the tree.
Meanwhile, the three injured passengers were given first aid at the scene before being transported to the Southern Philippines Medical Center for further medical treatment. Their conditions were not immediately disclosed as of this writing.
Authorities said the continuous rainfall likely loosened the soil, causing the tree’s roots to give way and eventually topple onto the road. Local officials are now reminding motorists to exercise extreme caution when traveling during severe weather, particularly in areas with large roadside trees that may pose hazards.
The incident has prompted calls for closer monitoring and inspection of trees along major roads in the district to prevent similar tragedies, especially during periods of prolonged rain and strong winds.
An investigation is ongoing to document the full circumstances surrounding the accident. Authorities have yet to release the identity of the deceased driver pending notification of his family.