Tragic Morning Accident Claims Farmer's Life
A 50-year-old female farmer lost her life in a tragic road accident that occurred early Sunday morning, November 30, 2025, along the provincial road in Barangay Manlapay, Dumanjug. The victim has been identified as Rosalinda Saris, a resident of Barangay Kanghalo, a mountainous area within Dumanjug.
Details of the Fatal Incident
According to the investigation conducted by the Dumanjug Police Station, the driver of the multicab with plate number JFA 407, Reymart Llanos Potestas, 25, voluntarily came forward after the accident. Potestas explained that his multicab pickup was already fully loaded with agricultural products destined for the Dumanjug town market.
The victim, Rosalinda Saris, had reportedly asked to ride along as she also intended to sell lumboy leaves at the market. Potestas initially refused due to the lack of space, but Saris insisted and attempted to pay the fare, ultimately leading the driver to allow her to board the overcrowded vehicle.
Dangerous Riding Position Led to Fatal Fall
Police Major Mark Anthony Villanueva, chief of the Dumanjug Police Station, revealed the dangerous circumstances of the accident. The driver disclosed that because the multicab was overloaded, Saris could only manage to have her right leg and the side of her body inside the vehicle while her other leg remained outside, facing the rear of the vehicle.
The tragedy struck when the multicab passed over a rocky section of the road. Saris lost her grip on the vehicle and fell onto the roadway. The impact was severe enough to cause significant head injuries that ultimately proved fatal.
Aftermath and Family Decision
Local residents quickly called for an ambulance, and the victim was rushed to the Rural Health Unit in Dumanjug. Despite these efforts, Saris succumbed to her injuries.
In a compassionate turn of events, the victim's family has decided not to press charges against the driver. Potestas has promised to assist with funeral expenses and other necessary costs related to the burial, showing responsibility in the wake of the tragedy.
This incident highlights the ongoing issue of overloaded vehicles on provincial roads and the risks passengers take when proper safety measures are compromised.
