Truck plunges into ravine; 6 dead

NORTH COTABATO – Six persons died when a truck plunged into a ravine along the highway in Aleosan, North Cotabato on Wednesday.

The truck driver, Anwar Ampatuan, his two helpers and two hitchikers who have yet to be identified died at the scene.

Chief Inspector Aldrin Gonzalez, Soccsksargen police spokesman, said the truck was on its way to Carmen town when Ampatuan lost control of the wheel after the brake malfunctioned.

The truck rammed a steel railing before if fell.

In Isabela, Rustico Villoria, 31, was riding a motorcycle when it collided with a truck in Barangay Babanuang, San Manuel, Isabela also on Wednesday.

Viloria died while being treated at the Roxas District Hospital where his companions Albert Samonte, 19, and driver Armando Cajoben, 22, were also taken for treatment.

The truck driver, Richard Reyes, 21, surrendered.