Authorities will increase police deployment along Marilaque Highway in Tanay, Rizal, following a tragic crash that claimed the life of a motorcycle rider during a dangerous stunt known as the “Superman.”
The fatal incident occurred Sunday afternoon in Sitio Manukan when two riders attempting the stunt lost control and crashed into bystanders and parked motorcycles. A video of the accident showed the riders lying prone on their seats and raising their legs at high speed on the winding road before colliding.
John Louie Arguelles, one of the riders, was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital. Six others sustained injuries. Police confirmed Arguelles did not have a driver’s license.
The other rider involved, Rico Buyawan, survived, and the injured parties, along with Arguelles’ family, have chosen not to file charges against him.
According to the Highway Patrol Group (HPG), the Marilaque Highway has become a hotspot for motorcycle exhibitions, with “Devil’s Corner” in Tanay being one of five sections notorious for such stunts. The HPG noted the use of codes among riders to evade authorities.
This month alone, 13 accidents have been recorded along the highway, with at least one incident occurring daily. To address the issue, both the HPG and Tanay Police will increase patrols. The HPG also warned that riders caught racing could face criminal charges.
Tanay’s local government is considering an ordinance to prohibit bystanders along the highway. Meanwhile, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) has ordered Buyawan to explain why his license should not be suspended.
Motorcycle riders have called for checkpoints and stricter enforcement of traffic violations, including revoking licenses of repeat offenders, to prevent future accidents.
