'No premeditated plan to inflict harm' in NAIA Terminal 1 car crash—DOTr

The Department of Transportation said that there was "no premeditated plan to inflict harm" in the incident where a black SUV crashed into the passenger entrance of Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1 on May 4. 

"Initial review of the CCTV footage showed the driver of the SUV dropping off a passenger, which indicates that there was no premeditated plan to inflict harm on the NAIA passengers," the department wrote in a statement, adding that the investigation is still ongoing. 

"The DOTr, together with the Manila International Airport Authority and law enforcement agencies, is conducting a full and impartial investigation, including reviewing all CCTV footage, and subjecting the driver to a drug test." 

In case you missed it, at around 8:55 a.m., the SUV driver was leaving the departure area after sending off a passenger when a sedan suddenly passed in front.

The Land Transportation Office said this has caused the driver "to panic, and instead of the brakes, he stepped on the gas pedal." 

Initial reports also indicated that the SUV crashed through the outer railing and into the walkway near the terminal entrance.

DOTr added that it suspended the driver's license for 90 days pending investigation.

Nonetheless, the agency grieved with the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, including a toddler and an adultt male. Four others were injured but were swiftly transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Meanwhile, NNIC president Ramon S. Ang said that he would personally shoulder the medical expenses of the four individuals injured and provide financial assistance to the families of the two who died in the incident.

"This is a very tragic incident. Our priority now is to make sure the victims and their families receive the support and care they need," he said. 

Similarly, the DOTr urged the public to respect the victims’ families and avoid sharing photos or videos of the incident on social media.