By Jennifer P. Rendon
A 33-year-old man has surrendered in connection with a hit-and-run incident in Jaro, Iloilo City that injured a motorcycle rider and his backrider.
The suspect, identified as alias Arvie, appeared at Iloilo City Police Station 3 on the morning of April 22, accompanied by his legal counsel.
Arvie admitted to driving the Ford Expedition that struck Ariel Habal, 32, a construction worker, and his cousin-backrider Erick Paul Gacita, 24.
Both victims are residents of Duran Street, Barangay Concepcion, City Proper, Iloilo City.
Major Shella Mae Sangrines, spokesperson of the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO), said Arvie claimed he panicked and fled the scene because he had used the vehicle without his employer’s permission.
The SUV is registered to a Chinese national who employs Arvie as a driver.
Arvie reportedly intended to turn himself in after the incident gained widespread attention on social media.
He assured authorities that he will take full responsibility and cover the victims’ medical expenses.
CCTV footage showed that Habal and Gacita were traveling along Commission Civil Street in Jaro from Barangay Javellana when they were hit by the Ford Expedition.
The vehicle, which was in the opposite lane, swerved left and collided with the motorcycle before fleeing toward La Paz district.
The motorcycle sustained damage to its front section.
Habal suffered lacerations on his left upper arm and hand, along with an avulsed little finger.
Gacita sustained a laceration on his left forearm, facial avulsion on the left side, and abrasions on his left hand.
Sangrines said the victims appear determined to pursue charges of reckless imprudence resulting in damage to property with physical injuries.
Earlier, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas offered to double the reward to PHP100,000 for information leading to the driver’s identification or arrest.
The mayor initially offered PHP50,000 but pledged to raise the amount if no credible leads surfaced within three days.
