Ten Dead, Over 30 Injured in Philippines Bus Crash; Driver Fell Asleep at the Wheel.

Manila:

At least 10 people, including four children, were killed and more than 30 others injured when a passenger bus plowed into multiple vehicles at a toll gate on the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway in northern Philippines, authorities said.

The bus driver, who has been detained, admitted to police that he had fallen asleep while driving. The crash occurred on Thursday during the Labour Day holiday, a peak travel period for families.

The bus, owned by regional transport operator Solid North Bus, collided with three SUVs and a container truck before coming to a halt. Photos from the scene shared by the Philippine Red Cross show the bus with a shattered windshield and several mangled vehicles strewn across the road.

The Department of Transportation has since ordered the suspension of Solid North Bus, pending further investigation.

Police said the driver could face charges of “reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicides.” The bus conductor was also taken into custody.

Transport Secretary Vince Dizon called for a review of bus company practices and working conditions. “If the driver in this case was sleepy, we should ask how long he has been working. Maybe the bus company forced him to work long hours?” he told local media outlet GMA Network.

Drug use among public transport drivers has raised concerns in recent weeks. While it remains unclear whether it played a role in this incident, a recent crackdown found 84 drivers testing positive for illegal substances.

The Philippine Red Cross is providing food and aid to victims recovering in hospitals.

Deadly bus accidents remain a persistent issue in the Philippines, where poor maintenance, overwork, and inadequate regulation have led to repeated tragedies.

Transport officials are expected to meet with representatives from nearly 30 bus companies on Friday to discuss safety reforms.