SUV Driver in NAIA Terminal 1 Crash Remains Silent, Cites “Mental Block” — PAO
NAIA CRASH – The SUV driver involved in the NAIA Terminal 1 crash has yet to offer any explanation, claiming only a “mental block,” according to the Public Attorney’s Office.
The 47-year-old driver involved in the fatal SUV crash at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 that left two people dead and several injured continues to withhold any explanation, only telling his lawyers that he is suffering from a “mental block,” according to the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO).
Three days after the tragic incident, the driver has not made any public statements and remains largely uncooperative during legal proceedings. On Monday, he underwent online inquest proceedings before the Pasay City Prosecutor’s Office. He is currently facing multiple charges including reckless imprudence resulting in two counts of homicide, multiple physical injuries, and property damage.
With no private legal representation, PAO has stepped in to provide legal assistance. However, the driver has provided minimal information, with PAO officials confirming that he simply stated “mental block” when asked about the crash.
“Basta nag-rely na lang ‘yong ating lawyer doon sa documents na pinadala sa kanya. Basta ang sagot lang daw niya is mental block. ‘Yon lang daw ang sinagot niya sa lawyer natin, wala na,” said Atty. Revelyn Ramos-Dacpano, Regional Public Attorney and Head Executive Support Staff of PAO-NCR.
Ramos-Dacpano emphasized that the driver cannot be forced to speak further if he genuinely believes he is experiencing a mental block. “Hindi naman natin siya pwedeng i-force to talk kung mental block nga siya or ano. Hindi natin alam ang rason niya kung bakit mental block ang sinasabi niya,” she added.
The SUV owner has not coordinated with authorities or the PAO. Investigators from the Aviation Security Unit disclosed that the driver had just dropped off his employer at the airport shortly before the incident. The driver was reportedly employed as a hardware driver, though it remains unclear whether the SUV belongs to the hardware business or to a private individual.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, while the victims’ families await justice. The case raises critical concerns about road safety and accountability, especially within high-traffic areas such as airports.
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