A propsman from Carcar City is facing a critical condition after a harrowing accident involving a truck transporting Sinulog festival props, which resulted in a broken left arm and severe injuries. The incident unfolded on Monday, January 19, 2026, at approximately 8:00 PM along the national highway in Lawaan 3, Talisay City, casting a shadow over the post-performance celebrations of the Carcar contingent.
Details of the Accident and Victims
The victims have been identified as Benjie Tanoco, 38, and Roderick Nuñez, both residents of Carcar City. They were part of the delegation returning from a repeat performance after securing third place in the Sinulog based category. According to the City of Talisay - Traffic Operations and Development Authority (CT-TODA), the cargo truck was driven by Emmanuel Jesus Diacamos, who reported noticing an obstruction behind the vehicle and subsequently applied the brakes.
Sequence of Events Leading to the Fall
Five individuals were aboard the truck, including the driver. One person occupied the passenger seat, while three others were positioned at the rear to monitor for low-hanging wires or obstacles that could entangle their props. As the convoy entered Talisay City, the props became ensnared in a telecommunications wire, which snapped and recoiled violently, causing Tanoco and Nuñez to lose their balance and fall from the moving vehicle.
Driver Diacamos stated that he was traveling at a slow speed due to awareness of the hanging wires and the presence of other convoy vehicles. Immediate medical attention was provided, with both propsmen rushed to the hospital. Tanoco suffered a head injury from impacting the concrete road, leading to a comatose state, while Nuñez sustained a broken left arm.
Aftermath and Ongoing Investigations
On Tuesday, January 20, the driver was released after reaching a settlement with the victims' families. The Carcar City Government has assumed responsibility for all medical expenses incurred by the injured parties. Meanwhile, Talisay police are actively investigating to identify the owner of the telecommunications wire involved in the accident, with further probes underway to determine liability and prevent future occurrences.
This incident highlights the risks associated with large-scale festival logistics and underscores the need for enhanced safety measures during transport of elaborate props. The community remains hopeful for Tanoco's recovery as authorities work to ensure such tragedies are averted in future Sinulog events.
