Man Forgives Driver After Losing Family in SCTEX Crash
JERRY TUAZON – A survivor of the deadly crash along SCTEX on May 1, has been released from the hospital—but now faces an even deeper pain. The accident claimed the lives of his wife, their only 8-year-old child, his sister-in-law, and close church friends. Despite this overwhelming loss, Jerry chose a path many would find difficult: forgiveness.
In a heartfelt interview, Jerry described the unbearable grief of losing the very people who had been entrusted to him during the trip. They were on their way to a children’s church camp in Pangasinan, excited about the journey ahead, even making plans to visit Baguio afterward. But tragedy struck in an instant when their van was hit in a multi-vehicle collision. Jerry later woke up in the hospital, unaware at first that his loved ones were already gone.
Though he suffered no major physical injuries, his heart was shattered. He described the emotional weight as something he continues to carry. Yet through his pain, Jerry’s words reflected peace, faith, and grace. “Yung nangyari na ‘yun, tanggap ko na ito ay pinahintulutan ng Panginoon. Para sa akin, sila ay natutulog lamang. Masaya na ako na pinahiram kayo ng Panginoon ng ilang araw, mga panahon, at taon. Magkikita tayo muli,” he said.
What stood out most was Jerry’s ability to forgive. He chose not to hold anger toward the bus driver involved in the crash. Instead, he offered understanding and compassion. “Okay na po ako. Napatawad ko po yung driver. Ayoko pong ipasara ang Solid North. Yung mga driver doon may pamilya rin po sila. Yung mga pasahero, kailangan din sila.,” he said.
Rather than demand justice in the form of punishment, Jerry called for responsible reforms—regular drug tests, proper training, and humane working hours for drivers to ensure passenger safety. His response, rooted in faith as a Seventh-Day Adventist, has touched many. Even after losing everything, Jerry still chose to care for others, showing the depth of his character and the strength of his spirit.
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