KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato — What was supposed to be a joyful celebration turned into an unimaginable tragedy for a family from Tupi, South Cotabato. A father and his teenage son were killed, while the mother remains in critical condition, after their motorcycle was hit by a pineapple-loaded truck that lost its brakes in Sitio Crossing Kahoy, Barangay Lamcaliaf, Polomolok, on Wednesday afternoon, October 22, 2025.
Authorities identified the fatalities as Michael Calaya, 38, and his 15-year-old son, known as “Boknoy,” both residents of Sitio Lemblisong, Barangay Kablon, Tupi. Michael’s wife, Neneng Otic, survived but sustained serious injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment.
Initial investigation revealed that the truck, loaded with pineapples, lost its brakes while navigating a downhill portion of the road, crashing into the family’s motorcycle. The family was reportedly on their way home after buying a cake in Polomolok — a sweet surprise for the birthday of their youngest child.
Eyewitnesses said that the motorcycle had already moved to the roadside to avoid the speeding truck, but the driver, unable to control the vehicle, still barreled toward them, crushing the family.
The victims were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, but Michael and his son were declared dead on arrival. Only the mother survived the horrifying ordeal.
A photo of the birthday cake, still intact after the crash, has since circulated online — a haunting reminder of a celebration that never happened. The cake that was meant to bring smiles to their home now stands as a symbol of heartbreak and loss.
What was supposed to be a day of joy and laughter for a child’s birthday has turned into a day of tears, pain, and mourning — a tragic story that left the entire community of Polomolok in grief.