At least 50 individuals sustained injuries after a harrowing three-bus collision on the northbound lane of the Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) Busway near Balintawak Station on Friday (January 10, 2025) afternoon, authorities reported.
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) confirmed the accident occurred at 12:22 p.m., prompting an immediate response from the agency and Quezon City’s local government. Ambulances were deployed to the scene to provide medical assistance and first aid to the injured, with several victims reportedly transported to nearby hospitals for further treatment.
Three-Bus Pile-Up
The three public utility buses (PUBs) involved in the crash were identified as belonging to operators Kellen, Admiral, and Jell. According to a video shared by the MMDA on Facebook, the aftermath was chaotic, with significant damage evident across all vehicles.
- Kellen Bus: Positioned at the front of the pile-up, the Kellen bus sustained rear damage.
- Admiral Bus: Caught in the middle, it bore extensive damage to both its front and rear ends.
- Jell Bus: The Jell bus, which appeared to have slammed into the Admiral bus, suffered severe front-end damage after also colliding with concrete barriers lining the busway.
The video revealed debris scattered across the busway as emergency responders worked to stabilize the scene and assist passengers. Witnesses described the crash as “loud and terrifying,” with passengers in a state of panic in the immediate aftermath.
Investigations Underway
Authorities have yet to determine the exact cause of the incident, which remains under investigation. Preliminary reports suggest the possibility of human error, mechanical failure, or non-compliance with traffic rules, but no official conclusions have been reached.
MMDA traffic enforcers and investigators are analyzing CCTV footage from the area to piece together the chain of events leading up to the crash.
“The priority right now is ensuring the injured are properly cared for while we continue to look into what happened,” an MMDA spokesperson said.
Traffic Chaos and Public Reaction
The collision caused significant traffic disruptions on the northbound EDSA Busway, with stranded commuters voicing frustration over delayed travel times. Authorities temporarily rerouted buses and other vehicles to ease congestion in the area.
On social media, users expressed concern over the frequency of busway accidents, with some calling for stricter regulations and enforcement of safety measures for public utility vehicles.
“This is not the first time we’ve seen an accident like this on the busway. How many more injuries will it take before authorities take action?” one netizen commented.
Call for Accountability
Friday’s incident has reignited calls for improved safety protocols on the EDSA Busway. Advocacy groups have emphasized the need for stricter driver training programs, regular vehicle inspections, and enhanced infrastructure to prevent accidents.
“While the busway has been an effective means of reducing travel time for commuters, incidents like this highlight critical safety gaps that must be addressed,” said a statement from the commuter safety organization RoadWatch PH.
Government officials have assured the public that appropriate measures will be taken following the investigation’s findings.
A Grim Reminder
This latest crash serves as a stark reminder of the risks commuters face on Metro Manila’s busiest thoroughfares. For many, it’s a wake-up call to revisit safety protocols and ensure public transportation systems are both efficient and secure.
As investigations unfold, the families of the injured, commuters, and advocates alike await answers – and action – to prevent another disaster from striking.
Video: Three-Bus Crash on EDSA Injures 50
A three-bus crash on the northbound EDSA Busway injured 50 people around noon on Friday, January 10, 2025.
Ambulances from the MMDA and Quezon City local government quickly responded to the scene.
The incident caused major traffic disruptions in the area.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash.
Commuters are advised to expect delays and plan their routes accordingly.