BISLIG CITY, Surigao del Sur — Twelve passengers were injured after an overloaded “chariot” tricycle lost control and plunged into a creek near the entrance of the famous Tinuy-an Falls in Barangay Burbuanon on Tuesday, authorities said.
The accident prompted an immediate emergency response from the Philippine Coast Guard through the Coast Guard Station Surigao del Sur under the leadership of ENS Mark Rudolf G. Garcia, together with personnel from CGSS Bislig and members of the Incident Management Team (IMT).
Initial investigation revealed that the vehicle was allegedly overloaded, which reportedly caused brake failure while traveling toward the tourist destination. Authorities said the tricycle driver lost control of the vehicle along the road leading to Tinuy-an Falls before it overshot and fell into a creek beside the roadway near the tourist spot’s entrance.
According to responders, the tricycle was carrying several passengers bound for the popular eco-tourism destination when the incident occurred. Witnesses said the vehicle appeared heavily loaded prior to the crash.
Emergency personnel immediately rushed to the scene and conducted rescue and assistance operations to ensure the safety of the victims. First aid was administered on-site to the injured passengers before they were transported to nearby hospitals for further medical treatment.
The Coast Guard Station Surigao del Sur said the swift response of rescuers helped prevent the situation from worsening and ensured immediate medical attention for the victims.
Authorities have yet to release the identities and conditions of the injured passengers as of posting time.
Officials also emphasized that the incident highlights the critical importance of vehicle safety, regular maintenance, and strict compliance with passenger and load limits, especially in areas frequented by tourists and travelers.
Investigations are still ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the accident.