Village  residents hold candlelight vigil for road crash victims

MAKILALA, Cotabato Province – Residents of Barangay Malasila, Makilala gathered early morning on December 5 to offer prayers and light candles in tribute to the eight victims who perished in a tragic road accident along Purok Bliss the previous day.

The fatal incident, which occurred at around 7:20 a.m. on December 4, involved a 10-wheeler truck carrying 450 bags of fertilizer which hit another ten (10) vehicles.

The driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle, causing a chain collision that claimed eight lives and injured six others.

Jay Tarife, a local resident and one of the organizers of the candlelighting ceremony, said the community came together to honor the victims and seek peace for their souls.

The vigil, held near the accident site, included prayers led by the barangay leader and emotional reflections from neighbors.

Despite the somber tribute, the incident has left lasting trauma, especially for those who witnessed the tragedy.

The Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) of Makilala has scheduled a Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD) session to help residents, particularly the youth, cope with the psychological impact.

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According to MSWDO Chief Lina Villacote-Cañedo, the stress debriefing aims to assist residents who are struggling with sleeplessness and recurring distressing images of the accident.

“We’ve already planned interventions for those who witnessed the disaster firsthand. These sessions are crucial for their recovery,” Cañedo stated.

The name “Malasila,” which some locals associate with bad luck, has gained a reputation due to frequent accidents in the area.

Residents cite the narrow, winding roads of the national highway and often slippery conditions caused by morning dew as factors contributing to the dangers.

“Regardless of the road’s condition, accidents can happen anytime. Drivers must always check their brakes, ensure vehicle safety, and stay alert,” Colonel Rolly Oranza, the town police chief reminded motorists.

The MSWDO and local government continue to extend support to the families of the victims, while the bodies of the deceased remain at Makilala funeral homes and their respective residences.

The six injured survivors are still undergoing treatment at a local hospital.

Residents said there is a need for enhanced road safety measures and constant vigilance when navigating highways, especially in mountainous areas like Malasila.