Manila: Five people were confirmed dead and nine were injured when the tourist van they were riding fell into a 50-meter ravine in Ampawilen, Sadanga, Mountain Province at about 10 p.m. on Friday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Mountain Province Provincial Police Office (MPPPO) shared on its official social media page that the white Nissan van with plate number NDA 9883 slipped and landed in the river, resulting in the death of three male and two female passengers. Police and other rescuers who immediately rushed to the scene had to use ropes to descend the ravine and lift the passengers out.

The injured victims were taken to the Bontoc General Hospital and are now recuperating. Initial information indicated that the vehicle was bound for Buscalan, Tinglayan, Kalinga when the accident occurred.

Meanwhile, MPPPO Director, Col. Ferdie Oydoc, reminded travelers to navigate the Cordillera roads with caution, as the provinces in the region have narrow, steep, and slippery roads, especially during rainy days, hence the need for precaution and preparedness when traveling in the area.

The Department of Public Works and Highways has also urged travelers to drive defensively in the Cordillera region. DPWH-Cordillera Director Khadaffy Tanggol advised travelers, particularly those unfamiliar with the Cordillera, to be vigilant of the road's curves, as well as potential falling rocks, which are not unusual in the region.