ONE person was killed, four others were injured and at least 6 vehicles were damaged yesterday after a steel girder from a portion of the ongoing Skyway project collapsed and fell at the East Service Road in Cupang, Muntinlupa City.
A report that reached the Public Commuters and Motorists Alliance (PCMA) said the accident occured at around 8:50 a.m.
The steel girder fell on three motorcycles, a taxi and a Mitsubishi Adventure van. Traffic police said are still investigating the cause of the tragedy.
“Parallel investigation po natin para malaman natin kung merong negligence at ano talaga ang cause ng aksidente, at sino ang dapat managot — ang Skyway ba o ang contractor,” said an investigator.
The accident caused heavy traffic in the area.
The Muntinlupa City Traffic Management Bureau said the East Service Road was closed due to the incident.
Initialy, the Muntinlupa City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management confirmed at least four individuals were rushed to the city hospital for serious medical attention.
In a statement, San Miguel Corporation (SMC) said project contractor EEI Corporation and government authorities are conducting an investigation.
However, initial assessment shows that a crane of EEI fell as it was moving to its next position, hitting the steel girder, causing it to fall, the statement added.
The rest of the statement reads:
“At least six vehicles were reported to have been affected. We are closely monitoring the situation.
As the project’s contractor, EEI will issue a statement. Their management however have given assurances that they will attend to, and take care of all the needs of those who were affected.
We deeply regret this unfortunate accident and assure a full and thorough investigation. Our thoughts and concern are with the victims and we will make sure they will get all the help they need. Their welfare is our priority.
Meanwhile, after initial assessment, this unfortunate incident sets back the completion of the Skyway Extension Project. From the December 2020 deadline, target completion is now February 2021.”
