Bus Driver Charged with Homicide After Fatal Collision Kills Veteran Police Officer in Naga City
A case of reckless imprudence resulting in homicide, physical injury, and damage to property has been formally filed at the Naga City Police Station against the driver of a Ceres bus involved in a tragic accident. The incident claimed the life of Police Executive Master Sergeant Antonio Sando, a dedicated member of the Philippine National Police (PNP) with three decades of service.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The fatal collision occurred at 7:45 a.m. on Sunday, February 1, 2026, along the National Highway in Barangay Inuburan, City of Naga, Cebu. According to official reports, the bus driver, identified as Junrel Cavalida, 43, a resident of Barangay Bato, Samboan, was operating the vehicle when it struck and killed the police officer.
Police Lieutenant Colonel Verniño Noserale, chief of Naga City Police, confirmed that the case was filed through inquest proceedings at 11:45 a.m. on the same day. The driver is currently under custody at a temporary custodial facility while authorities complete the necessary documentation and investigation.
A Distinguished Career Cut Short
Police Executive Master Sergeant Antonio Sando was a member of the Traffic Patrol Group assigned to the office of the chief of Police Regional Office in Central Visayas (PRO 7). He had served the Philippine National Police for exactly 30 years, having joined the force on February 1, 1996.
Throughout his distinguished career, Sando was known for:
- Upholding discipline, professionalism, and commitment to public service
- Serving as one of the security escorts for the PRO 7 Regional Director's office
- Playing a major role in promoting road safety and traffic discipline across Central Visayas
- Being just months away from retirement, with his retirement scheduled for June 13, 2026
Official Response and Condolences
The Police Regional Office 7 expressed profound grief over Sando's untimely death, describing him as a kind and committed officer. Police Brigadier General Redrico Maranan, chief of police in Central Visayas, extended heartfelt condolences to Sando's family, relatives, and close friends.
"We mourn the loss of Police Executive Master Sergeant Antonio Sando, a committed police officer whose years of dedicated service were cut short by this tragic incident," Maranan stated. "His passing is a profound loss to the Philippine National Police and to the community he served with honor."
Support for the Bereaved Family
General Maranan assured that PRO 7 will provide strong support and assistance to Sando's family during this difficult time. This includes:
- Pursuing charges against the responsible party through the legal process
- Ensuring all benefits due to the fallen police officer are granted to his family
- Providing necessary support services to help the family cope with their loss
The incident has highlighted the dangers faced by traffic enforcement personnel on Philippine roads and the importance of road safety measures. As the legal proceedings move forward, the law enforcement community in Central Visayas mourns the loss of one of their most experienced and dedicated members.
