AT LEAST 27 individuals cheated death after two passenger buses collided with each other along Halsema Highway last May 24.

In a report to the Police Regional Office Cordillera, the crash involved a GL passenger bus driven by Blester Lapa-an Bing-il, 26, a resident of San Vicente, Baguio City, and a Rising Sun passenger bus driven by Dave Bangcado, 26, a resident of KM3, San Luis Extension, Baguio City.

Investigation revealed the GL bus was traversing the national road going to Besao, Mountain Province when its wheels suddenly slipped and encroached the other lane, hitting the Rising Sun bus, which was traversing the opposite direction.

Both vehicles incurred multiple damage, while both drivers and 25 of their passengers sustained injuries.

Both drivers and 18 passengers were rushed by concerned citizens to Luis Hora Memorial Regional Hospital, Bauko, Mt. Province, while seven passengers were brought to Bontoc General Hospital, Bontoc, Mt. Province for medical treatment.

Among those injured were Tessie Cawatig Naoy, 59; Ben Benido Carbonel, 83; Buking Santing, 74; Taharis Dalia Yogawen, 11; Eddilyn Bacasan Naubo, 18; Mario Timoac Sildon, 29; Shendra Tad-awan Filog, 20; Esmila Akiapat Paterno, 20; Sabina Lengao, 19; Ruby Joan Masilian Facullo, 50; January Masilian Facullo, 23; Mikaela Gasilang, 15; Myrna Kitongan, 27; Christian Dalapus, 23; Glen Codod Gayagay, 11; and Manuel Mendoza Imatong, 69; Xarwin Degyam 48; Vera Falisang, 25; Verginia Kilito, 38; Jun Kilito, 38; Chrystel Tabora, 32; Jackielyn Challoy, 53; and Janet Aoas, 55.