Jobaaj Stories
NAIA Terminal 1 Accident: Tragedy Strikes at Airport
A horrifying car accident at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 on Sunday, May 4th, 2025, left two people dead and several others injured. The incident, involving a black Ford Everest SUV, has shocked the nation and sparked renewed calls for improved road safety measures in the Philippines.
The Accident and its Victims
Around 8:50 a.m., the SUV, driven by Leo Sinlao Gonzales, careened into the departure entrance of NAIA Terminal 1, striking multiple pedestrians. The impact resulted in the tragic deaths of a five-year-old girl and a 28-year-old man. Four others sustained injuries, with one remaining in critical condition. The harrowing scene, captured in several videos and photos that circulated online, showed bodies scattered across the pavement and the severely damaged vehicle.
- The Victims: A five-year-old girl, a 28-year-old man, and four others injured.
- The Driver: Leo Sinlao Gonzales, whose driver's license has been preventively suspended for 90 days.
- The Vehicle: A black Ford Everest SUV.
The incident tragically affected an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) bound for Europe, whose five-year-old daughter was among the fatalities. His wife remains hospitalized in critical condition, and his mother, while injured, is now stable. The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is providing assistance to the grieving family, including helping the OFW explain his absence to his employer.
The Aftermath and Investigation
Following the accident, several agencies immediately sprang into action. The Land Transportation Office (LTO) preventively suspended Gonzales's driver's license and issued a show-cause order. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced that Gonzales would undergo a mandatory drug test. New NAIA Infrastructure Corp. (NAIA Infra), the airport's operator, pledged to cover all hospital bills and provide financial assistance to the victims' families. President Ramon S. Ang personally committed to aid the victims.
- LTO Actions: 90-day license suspension and show-cause order issued.
- DOTr Actions: Mandatory drug test for the driver.
- NAIA Infra Actions: Financial and medical assistance to victims' families.
- DMW Actions: Assistance to the OFW family.
Gonzales claims he was momentarily distracted by a sedan that cut him off, causing him to accidentally accelerate instead of braking. However, initial CCTV footage does not appear to support this claim. The investigation is ongoing, and Gonzales faces possible charges of reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicides and injuries.
The Broader Context: A Call for Road Safety Reforms
This tragic event highlights the persistent road safety crisis in the Philippines. The high number of road accidents, coupled with weak enforcement and inadequate driver training, calls for urgent attention. The incident, following another fatal bus accident just days prior, underscores the need for stricter regulations, improved infrastructure, and a greater emphasis on driver education and responsible driving.
Conclusion
The NAIA Terminal 1 accident serves as a grim reminder of the importance of road safety. While investigations continue, the loss of life and injuries sustained demand a comprehensive review of current safety measures and a renewed commitment to preventing future tragedies. The outpouring of support for the victims' families underscores the collective grief and the urgent need for change.
