A fatal crash on a busy Cebu flyover has triggered renewed calls for accountability, with a road safety group pressing for a full public accounting of what went wrong.
A road safety advocacy group has called for a “thorough and transparent” investigation into a fatal collision involving an ambulance and a motorcycle on a flyover in Barangay Luz.
In a statement issued Wednesday, Cebu Road Heroes expressed “profound sorrow and outrage” over the April 14 incident at the Archbishop Reyes Avenue flyover that left 18-year-old student Braille Nichole Kwek dead and another student, Juan Antonio Ladioray, injured.
“Our deepest condolences go out to the family, friends, and classmates of Braille Nichole Kwek, and we offer our thoughts and support to Juan Antonio Ladioray for a full recovery,” the group said.
Initial reports indicated that the victims were riding a motorcycle that collided with an ambulance allegedly traveling against the flow of traffic. The impact killed Kwek, while Ladioray remains under medical care.
The group said the incident underscores an “ongoing need for enhanced road safety measures” and stricter adherence to traffic rules, including among emergency responders.
“Even emergency vehicles must adhere to safety protocols, and all drivers must remain hyper-vigilant for pedestrians, especially near intersections and crossings,” the statement read.
Cebu Road Heroes urged authorities to conduct a full investigation and called on the Cebu City government to review safety measures in high-risk areas such as flyovers and zones with heavy pedestrian-vehicle interaction.
“We demand a thorough and transparent investigation into this specific incident,” the group said. “Let this tragedy be the final catalyst for real, meaningful change on our roads.”
Data from the Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO) reinforced the group’s concerns, with 20 road crashes recorded in a single day on Tuesday, eight of which involved motorcycles.
CCTO head Raquel Arce described the situation as “alarming” and urged motorists to strictly comply with traffic laws regardless of circumstances.
“Emergency vehicle or not, safety must remain the priority,” Arce said.
Authorities said the ambulance was en route to Gorordo Avenue, while the motorcycle was heading toward Barangay Talamban when the collision occurred.
Both vehicles were reportedly traversing opposite lanes of the flyover at the time.
Authorities have yet to release full details as the investigation continues, including confirmation of all parties involved and the circumstances leading to the crash. (LLP)
Photo by: Jacq Hernandez, PBB Photojournalist
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