Doctor Grieves as Mother Dies in Accident Hours After Returning Home
DR. JUDE REY PAGALING – A doctor expressed his profound grief and frustration on social media after the tragic death of his mother, Emilyn Pagaling, in a car accident on November 20.
The heartbreaking incident occurred just hours after Emilyn, a 67-year-old mother of seven, arrived at Laguindingan Airport from the United States to visit her family. Dr. Pagaling, along with other family members, welcomed his mother at the airport, but their joy quickly turned to sorrow when Emilyn was involved in a fatal collision on Diversion Road in Opol, Misamis Oriental.
Emilyn was traveling with her husband, Judito, their daughter Kathleen Cecille, and three minors in a black Ford Expedition. They were on their way to Cagayan de Oro City when the vehicle was struck by a Ford Everest driven by a 17-year-old minor.
The minor, who held a non-professional driver’s license, was reportedly driving at high speed and failed to yield when entering the diversion road. The collision caused severe damage to the Expedition, and despite being rushed to the hospital, Emilyn succumbed to her injuries. Her family members sustained injuries but survived.
In a deeply emotional post, Dr. Pagaling shared that despite working hard to become a doctor, he could not save his mother. He expressed his frustration that his mother, who had no history of fatal health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, was instead killed by the reckless driving of a young, inexperienced driver. His heartfelt words resonated with many, highlighting the pain of losing a loved one in such a senseless manner.
The tragedy has sparked outrage among the public, with many calling for justice for Emilyn. People are demanding that the minor driver be held accountable for his reckless actions. As of now, authorities have not announced any charges against the driver, and investigations are ongoing.