OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental — One person was killed while more than 20 others were injured after an air-conditioned passenger bus bound for Cagayan de Oro City overturned along a national highway in Barangay Mobod on Monday, authorities confirmed.
Initial reports identified the vehicle as a rural bus traveling from Dipolog City en route to Cagayan de Oro when the said accident occurred within the jurisdiction of Oroquieta City.
Emergency responders declared one passenger dead at the scene, while several others sustained injuries ranging from abrasions to lacerations. The injured victims were immediately given first aid and transported to nearby hospitals for further medical treatment.
The Oroquieta City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office reported that it responded to what was classified as a mass casualty incident involving the overturned bus. Upon arrival, responders encountered multiple passengers in need of urgent medical attention.
Rescue and retrieval operations were swiftly carried out through a coordinated effort involving the Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine National Police, City Health Office, Special Operations and Concern Division, and the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.
Authorities said the victims were stabilized on-site before being rushed to medical facilities. Scene control and clearing operations were also immediately conducted to prevent further incidents along the busy roadway.
Investigators are still determining the exact cause of the accident, including whether mechanical failure, road conditions, or human error contributed to the tragedy.
Officials urged motorists to exercise caution and adhere to road safety measures, especially when traversing long-distance routes.
The incident highlights the continuing risks faced by public utility vehicles on provincial highways, prompting renewed calls for stricter safety checks and responsible driving to prevent similar tragedies.