A SPORT utility vehicle (SUV) plowed into a crowd of people at the departure entrance of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 on Sunday morning, resulting in two fatalities and four injuries. The incident, which occurred around 8:50 a.m., has sparked a full-scale investigation.
According to Pasay Police Substation 8, the SUV struck multiple pedestrians. The Philippine Red Cross, in a Facebook post, identified the victims as an adult male and a four-year-old girl. The Red Cross swiftly mobilized five ambulances from various locations, deploying 18 volunteers to the scene. A rescue vehicle with four responders was also dispatched for potential extrication operations.
The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) issued a statement confirming that the driver is in the custody of the Philippine National Police.
The MIAA also reported that the area has been secured, with access limited to authorized personnel from New NAIA Infra Corp., the Philippine National Police, and MIAA Security, who are conducting a thorough investigation.
The MIAA statement further indicated that they are awaiting official confirmation regarding the cause of the incident and details of the injuries sustained by the survivors. They emphasized their close coordination with all relevant agencies to ensure accurate information is gathered.
The incident has raised serious concerns about safety protocols at NAIA. While the investigation is ongoing, the tragic loss of life and the multiple injuries highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive review of security measures at the airport.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
