Tragedy struck in Sitio Badbad, Barangay Bantay, Boac, Marinduque, on Saturday morning, when a passenger jeepney carrying 26 people lost its brakes and plunged into a canal, resulting in the deaths of six individuals, including a child. Around 20 others sustained injuries, with several in critical condition.

According to initial police reports, the incident occurred around 10:20 a.m. as the jeepney was descending a curved section of the highway. The vehicle reportedly experienced mechanical failure—specifically, brake malfunction—which caused it to accelerate uncontrollably downhill.

The jeepney was en route from the town of Sta. Cruz and was headed to a river resort, where the group planned to spend the day for a recreational outing. Onboard were numerous families and children.

Witnesses recounted that the jeepney was moving at high speed as it descended. It first collided with several cement culverts along the roadside before crashing into a mango tree on the far side of the canal. The impact caused the jeepney to overturn and fall into the canal. Due to the force of the crash, the roof of the vehicle was torn off and the front portion was completely wrecked.

The accident caused chaos and panic as many passengers were ejected from the vehicle, while others—including young children—were thrown directly into the canal.

Immediate rescue efforts were launched by nearby residents and first responders.

Emergency personnel from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in Boac and Mogpog, members of the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (MDRRMO) of Boac and Mogpog, and the Boac Municipal Police Station quickly arrived on the scene to assist in the rescue operation. Victims were promptly transported to nearby hospitals.

Despite the swift response, six people, including a child, were declared dead on arrival. All of the fatalities were identified as residents of Barangay Labo, Sta. Cruz. PCOL Arthur Salida, Provincial Director of the Marinduque Police Provincial Office, confirmed that among the injured were nine minors. Several of them remain in critical condition under medical care.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident, focusing on the vehicle’s mechanical condition and whether it was roadworthy. The driver’s account, along with eyewitness testimonies, will be key to determining the full circumstances that led to the crash.

The local government has extended its condolences to the grieving families and assured them of support, including assistance with medical and burial expenses. The incident has also prompted calls for stricter enforcement of vehicle maintenance standards and road safety measures in the province, especially for public utility vehicles.

As the community mourns the loss, efforts are underway to ensure that those injured receive the care they need and that such a tragedy does not happen again.