Consul-General Paul Raymund Cortes urged Filipinos working in the United Arab Emirates to ensure their cars are road-ready after four overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) died instantly in a crash on Good Friday, a report by Gulf News said.
The car was found to have stalled on the third lane of the Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Road before ramming into an incoming vehicle, the report said. The car also had a wiggly tire, contrary to initial reports that the tire burst.
“I’d like to remind our kababayans [compatriots] who drive to double check the condition of their vehicles before going on the road and to make sure everything is in good condition,” Cortes was quoted as saying.
“If you’re in the middle of the road and something happens, as per police, drive to the shoulder and don’t attempt to fix it yourself as it is not safe,” he added.
Cortes advised OFWs to stay away from their vehicles if they stall and to make sure to use emergency warning signs visible to other motorists.
Gulf News identified the four crash victims based on a Philippine government database as follows: Veronica Dulay, 39, secretary; Daniel Paulo Paraiso, 30, storekeeper; Marvin Mendoza, 27, storekeeper; Lord Christian Asuncion, 29, interior designer.
Two other passengers identified as Mary Ann Mendoza and Anna Paula Paulino are still in critical condition at the Al Rahba Hospital.
