By CESAR JOLITO III

At least 13 individuals, including a driver and 12 passengers, were injured after a pickup truck crashed into a traditional public utility jeepney along Gatuslao Street and South Capitol Road in Bacolod City yesterday morning.

Police Major Elmer Bonilla, Bacolod Traffic Enforcement Unit head, said the pickup truck was driven by 26-year-old Annvil Carambacan.

The jeepney, operating on the Bata–Libertad route, was driven by Rigor Cortes.

Initial investigation suggests that the pickup truck was allegedly running at high speed when it struck the jeepney’s rear portion, causing it to overturn.

The injured passengers were identified as Lynith Jeminez, Debbie Durendes, Ma. Theresa Diaz, Novemia Abarillo, Ariel Siodina, Jiro Adrian Magbanua, Zairus Makilang, Febie Trujillo, Ken Labanon, Daylen Mahilum, John Joval Aloquina, and one minor.

The jeepney driver also sustained injuries.

All victims were brought to Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital for treatment.

Authorities said most of the injuries were minor, and some passengers were allowed to go home after receiving first aid.

Carambacan, who had no passengers at the time of the incident, is currently under the custody of Bacolod Police Station 2 as the investigation continues.

The collision also resulted in damage to the front bumper of the pickup truck.

Authorities are still determining the full circumstances surrounding the incident./CJ, WDJ