A van driver is appealing for public assistance after being harassed and assaulted by a group of riders on Ambuklao Road in Bokod, Benguet, on December 7, 2024.
The incident went viral on social media, showing the van driver, identified as Daniel Saturnino, being stopped and harassed by six riders after a confrontation on the road.
According to Saturnino, the riders forced him to slow down and attempted to overtake his van in a dangerous curve.
When he yielded to let them pass, the riders blocked his van and forced him to stop completely.
One rider approached his right window, while another stood near the driver’s side, urging him to get out of the vehicle for a confrontation.
One rider reportedly stared aggressively at him while he remained inside, while another damaged his van’s side mirror.
Saturnino said he feared for his life when one of the riders appeared to be reaching for a weapon.
In response, he quickly drove away, exiting his vehicle only after reaching a nearby river to ensure his safety.
The six riders fled the scene as Saturnino made his escape.
He continued his trip to transport three passengers after verifying that the riders had left the area.
The driver expressed gratitude to bystanders who recorded the incident, which has been reported to the Bokod Municipal Station for investigation.
Authorities are currently reviewing CCTV footage from Junction-Gurel to identify the riders involved.
Saturnino is urging the public to assist in identifying the suspects to ensure they are held accountable.