Pinoys among victims in NY bus crash

An unknown number of Filipinos were among the passengers of a tourist bus which figured in an accident along New York's I-90 highway on Friday (Saturday Manila time), leaving at least five dead and dozens injured, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed, citing New York State Police.

- MICHAEL PUNONGBAYAN

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to those affected by this incident," the DFA said in a statement issued yesterday without releasing more details.

"Respecting the privacy of the individuals, authorities have not released further information and instead relayed that they will be reaching out to the families of the victims directly," the DFA noted.

The consulate general of the Philippines in New York is monitoring developments on the fatal bus crash.

The DFA said the consulate stands ready to assist any of the victims who may need assistance.

"For victims of the accident or their next-of-kin, the consulate may be reached at the Assistance-to-Nationals Hotline [phone]."

Tragic ride home

The wreck happened 25 miles (40 kilometers) east of Buffalo as the tourists headed back to New York City after visiting Niagara Falls.

The passengers were of Indian, Chinese and Filipino origin, authorities said.