KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato — Three minors were injured following a traffic accident involving a motorcycle and a tricycle in Purok Riverside, Barangay Cacub, Koronadal City, at around 2:45 p.m. on December 25, 2025, a day when many families were still celebrating Christmas.

The injured victims were identified as James Jamin, 16; James Arnaiz, 16; and JR Jamin, 16, all residents of Purok Mabinuligon, Barangay Topland. The three teenagers were riding a grey Honda Click motorcycle (Plate No. M942GY) when it collided with a tricycle driven by Jamer Rahjabuayan, 18, a resident of Barangay Tamnag, Lutayan, Sultan Kudarat.

According to initial reports, the collision caused the minors to sustain abrasions and minor injuries. They were immediately transported to the South Cotabato Provincial Hospital for medical treatment. The tricycle driver was not injured, although the front portion of his vehicle sustained damage due to the impact.

While authorities have yet to release the full results of their investigation, the incident has once again raised concerns about road safety, particularly involving minors operating or riding motorcycles. Traffic accidents involving young riders remain a recurring issue in many parts of the country, often linked to lack of driving experience, non-compliance with traffic regulations, or inadequate supervision.

From a broader perspective, this incident highlights the need for stricter enforcement of traffic laws and stronger community awareness regarding the dangers of underage driving. Parents and guardians play a crucial role in ensuring that minors are not exposed to unnecessary risks on the road. At the same time, local authorities may need to intensify road safety campaigns, especially during holidays when traffic volume increases and vigilance tends to drop. In my view, it is fortunate that the injuries sustained were not fatal, but this should serve as a serious warning. Road safety is a shared responsibility, and preventing similar accidents in the future requires cooperation among families, communities, and law enforcement agencies to protect young lives and promote safer streets for everyone. (Larawan: Reyhandro Cabillon Pam / Facebook)