Cause of drag race accident still undetermined

By Erly C. Garcia

There is no explanation yet as to why a tragic accident happened in a drag racing competition in Brgy. Dacutan, Dumangas, Iloilo over the weekend.

Panay Auto Club (PAC) president Bobby Badilla said they have yet to interview Jun Jucaban, driver of the ill-fated vehicle.

Badilla said, they were informed that Jucaban is still in a state of shock.

While the investigation is ongoing, Badilla, in behalf of their organization, apologized for the tragic accident that killed two persons and injured 18 others.

“As of now our group is focusing on giving assistance to the families of the victims,” Badilla said.

Badilla stressed their group together with the municipal government of Dumangas have made everything to ensure the safety of everybody in the drag racing competition.

He said it is “standard operating procedure” among racers to make sure that everything— from the driver, crew, and spectators—are in place and in safe condition.

Badilla stressed they were not negligent in preparing for the big event as all aspects had been taken cared of by the different committees.

The Distura Cup Drag Race was supposed to have been scheduled for two days, April 23 and 24, as part of the activities for the upcoming Dumangas town fiesta.

The tragedy happened early on to the first day of the race. The competition was totally cancelled after the incident.

Reports have it that midway to the 400-meter raceway Jucaban's vehicle, a Toyota Starlet Model 82, swerved to the right lane then careened to the roadside hitting a barangay tanod and several spectators.

Barangay tanod Rolando Palma died on the spot while EmilioDionio expired Saturday afternoon at a hospital due to severe internal injuries.

The 18 other victims suffered abrasions and contusions in the different parts of their body.

Dumangas Mayor Rolando Distura assured that the municipal government would help all the victims of the tragedy.

It was learned that this year's race was already the second time to be held in Dumangas as part of the activities for the fiesta celebration.