Bercede orders probe into fallen tree accident

Mandaue City Mayor Glenn Bercede has assured that there will be accountability for the failure to act on a request to cut a buri tree in Barangay Ibabao-Estancia, which resulted in the death of a six-year-old boy.

- Kristin de Dios

As reported, the victim, identified as Christian Quilaton Jr., was under the care of his grandfather while his parents were at work. The child had been playing along the road when the old tree suddenly collapsed, trapping him beneath its heavy trunk.

Bercede told reporters, in an interview yesterday, that it was an accident. However, since there is proof that residents in the area had already requested the tree to be cut down, someone must be held accountable.

“Kay og walay request, nahitabo lang gyud to that the old tree suddenly collapsed karang gitawag nato nga fortuitous event,” Bercede explained.

He further stated that if it had been a natural occurrence, no one would be held accountable. However, the tree involved, which caused Quilaton’s death, had a letter requesting its removal, but no action was taken.

With this, Bercede said that he has assigned someone to investigate the matter and identify the individuals or offices responsible for failing to act on the request to cut down the tree.

“Gipa-investigate na ngano nga nahitabo na nga ingon ana,” said Bercede.

The city mayor assured to hasten the investigation to determine who is responsible for the incident.

Bercede said that they are investigating the head of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), Buddy Alaim Ybañez, after the administration learned that a letter requesting his office to cut down the tree was submitted as early as November 2024.

“Kay naka-receive man siya (Ybañez) og letter, unya nganong wala man na niya aksyonì, said the mayor.