Two dead, nine hurt in Pangasinan road mishap

By Eva Visperas and Cesar Ramirez 

MANGATAREM, Pangasinan  – Two persons died while nine others were injured when a utility van collided with a mini-bus here March 7.

Van passengers Dennis Espejo and Angelita Montes, both of Quezon City, were declared dead on arrival at the Mangatarem District Hospital.

Taken to the same hospital for treatment were their companions – Dave Capistrano, Philip Eric Ilagan, Jovelyn Macatunggay, Vivian Navardez, and Renato, Vanessa and RV Peter, all surnamed Abus.

Bus conductor Primo Celestino and van driver Ronald Gatpatan were also injured in the accident while bus driver Ronnil Valdez was unhurt.

Reports said the L-300 van (UJA-587) and the mini-bus were traveling in opposite directions along the Romulo Highway in Barangay Quetegan when they figured in an accident at around 4:40 a.m.