‘Daddy, I’ll Miss You’: Girl Killed Moments After Sending Off OFW Father at NAIA

A heartbreaking accident occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1, when a black sport utility vehicle (SUV) lost control and crashed into a crowd near the terminal’s entrance and exit area. The incident resulted in the deaths of two individuals, including a 5-year-old girl, and left at least four others injured.

Initial reports from authorities revealed that the SUV was approaching the terminal when the driver reportedly stepped on the accelerator instead of the brake, causing the vehicle to lurch forward at high speed. The car slammed into several people waiting outside the terminal building—some of whom had just said their goodbyes to departing loved ones.

One of the fatalities was a young girl who had just seen off her father, an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) preparing to return to his job abroad. The girl’s mother and grandmother, who were with her at the time of the incident, were also struck by the vehicle and sustained multiple injuries. Both women were quickly transported to San Juan de Dios Hospital in Pasay City and are currently undergoing treatment, along with two other victims who were also injured in the crash.

Witnesses at the scene described the aftermath as chaotic and emotionally wrenching. Screams for help and cries of anguish echoed throughout the area as emergency responders rushed to assist the victims. Security personnel had to physically restrain the father of the deceased child, who was seen in utter shock and grief, reportedly believing that his daughter was still pinned beneath the SUV.

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) promptly acted by suspending the driver’s license for 90 days and initiating a comprehensive investigation into the incident. The driver, whose identity is being withheld pending further inquiry, has already undergone a mandatory drug test as part of standard protocol. Authorities are also reviewing CCTV footage from the airport to determine the exact sequence of events and assess any signs of negligence or foul play.

As of this writing, officials have yet to release the names of the deceased and injured individuals, pending notification of their immediate family members. Counseling and support services have also been offered to affected relatives.

According to the Philippine National Police – Aviation Security Group, the driver of the SUV is expected to face formal charges of reckless imprudence resulting in homicide and serious physical injuries. Legal experts say that, depending on the outcome of the investigation, the charges could be upgraded if gross negligence or other aggravating circumstances are proven.

Airport operations at Terminal 1 were momentarily disrupted as investigators cordoned off the area for several hours. Authorities have since reopened the site, but have called for stricter safety measures and traffic controls around all terminal access points to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The tragic incident has once again highlighted the need for heightened vigilance and accountability, especially in high-traffic public areas like international airports. Public outcry on social media has also intensified, with many Filipinos demanding justice for the victims and calling for improved pedestrian safety infrastructure across all airport terminals.