ALABANG, Muntinlupa — Patrons at a popular Alabang restaurant experienced a shocking incident on Sunday, February 8, 2026, when a vehicle rammed into its al fresco dining area. Actor Mateo Guidicelli, co-owner of the establishment, shared images of the aftermath on social media, showing the damaged outdoor space and scattered furniture.

Reports indicate that no customers were injured during the incident. However, two restaurant staff members who were inside the restaurant at the time were rushed to a nearby hospital for medical attention. Fortunately, their injuries were not reported to be life-threatening.

According to the management and Guidicelli, the al fresco area is usually closed to the public for safety reasons, while indoor dining remained open. Authorities are investigating the circumstances that led to the vehicle entering the property, including whether the driver lost control or if other factors contributed to the accident.

This incident highlights an often-overlooked issue: the safety of outdoor dining spaces, particularly in busy urban areas. With restaurants increasingly offering open-air seating, questions arise about whether sufficient barriers and safety measures are in place to protect staff and customers from unforeseen accidents. While patrons enjoy the comfort of al fresco dining, the risk of vehicle collisions—though rare—remains a concern.

Could this incident serve as a wake-up call for stricter safety protocols in public dining areas, or is it simply an isolated accident? How far should restaurants go to ensure the safety of their patrons without compromising the dining experience? (Larawan mula sa: Mateo Guidicelli / Instagram)