CEBU CITY – Authorities Urge Strict Observance of Traffic Laws Following Tragic Accident Involving Presiding Judge

In a sobering reminder to motorists and the general public about the importance of road safety, authorities in Cebu have urged everyone to strictly observe traffic laws following a road accident that resulted in the D34TH of a 41-year-old lady judge in Pinamungajan town, Cebu province, on Wednesday, October 22. The incident, which has shocked both the local community and the legal fraternity, highlights the grave consequences of negligence on the road and the need for heightened awareness among drivers, especially the young and inexperienced.

According to the Police Regional Office-Central Visayas (PRO-7), the accident involved two motorcycles, one of which was driven by a 19-year-old man who reportedly did not possess a valid driver’s license. Moreover, the motorcycle he was operating had an expired registration, further compounding the legal and safety violations. Details provided by law enforcement indicate that the collision occurred when the young driver failed to anticipate the movements of another motorcycle, which suddenly turned left in front of him, leading to a catastrophic crash that claimed the life of the presiding judge.

The judge, identified as Presiding Judge Carmela Rosario Pasquin of the Municipal Circuit Trial Court (MCTC) Branch 14 of Pinamungajan-Aloguinsan, was being transported on a motorcycle driven by Eric Gelizon Lanzarate, who serves as a court processor for MCTC Aloguinsan-Pinamungajan. The authorities reported that the accident was sudden and violent; Judge Pasquin suffered severe injuries after being thrown from the motorcycle during the collision, ultimately resulting in her D34TH. Her untimely passing has left a significant void in the local judiciary, affecting colleagues, court staff, and the community she served with dedication.

The driver of the other motorcycle involved in the accident was identified as Mark James Cabiling. Police investigations suggest that the crash was the direct result of reckless driving and the failure to adhere to established traffic regulations. “Reckless driving and disregard for traffic laws put innocent lives in danger. This unfortunate incident serves as a painful reminder that road safety begins with discipline and responsibility,” stated Police Brigadier General Redrico Maranan, chief of PRO-7, emphasizing the critical importance of lawful and attentive driving.

Following the accident, charges for reckless imprudence resulting in D34TH and physical injury have been formally filed against Cabiling. Legal experts note that such charges carry significant penalties under Philippine law, highlighting the seriousness with which authorities treat traffic violations that result in fatal outcomes. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court (SC) of the Philippines extended its “heartfelt condolences to Judge Pasquin’s family, loved ones, and the entire MCTC Aloguinsan-Pinamungajan staff,” underscoring the national impact of the tragic event.

In a statement, the High Court paid tribute to Judge Pasquin’s life and work, recognizing her dedication to justice, integrity, and public service. “Her unwavering commitment and ethical approach left a lasting impact on those she served and worked with,” the SC noted. The statement further highlighted that although her tenure as a trial judge was abruptly ended, her simplicity, modesty, and dedication to judicial duty exemplified the moral compass that all members of the Judiciary are expected to uphold.

Judge Pasquin, a native of Cebu City, embarked on her legal career after passing the Bar in 2010, initially working as a solo practitioner. She later joined the Judiciary in 2019, serving as Clerk of Court of Branch 17, Regional Trial Court (RTC) in Barotac Viejo town, Iloilo province. In 2021, she was promoted to Clerk of Court VI of the same RTC before assuming her role as Presiding Judge of MCTC Aloguinsan-Pinamungajan in 2024. Throughout her career, Judge Pasquin was known for her professionalism, dedication, and commitment to the principles of justice, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues, legal practitioners, and members of the community alike.

The accident and the subsequent D34TH of Judge Pasquin have prompted renewed calls for stricter enforcement of traffic laws in Cebu and surrounding provinces. Authorities emphasize that adherence to speed limits, proper licensing, regular vehicle registration, and general road discipline are crucial in preventing similar tragedies. In addition to legal repercussions, reckless driving places an emotional and social burden on families and communities, as exemplified by the profound grief experienced by Judge Pasquin’s family and the MCTC staff.

Experts also note that young and inexperienced drivers are often involved in road accidents due to a combination of inattention, lack of training, and disregard for traffic rules. “Education, strict enforcement, and responsible driving behavior are the most effective measures to prevent such incidents,” remarked a local traffic safety official. The tragic loss of a respected public servant like Judge Pasquin underscores the real-life consequences of traffic negligence and serves as a solemn warning to all motorists.

As investigations continue, law enforcement agencies in Cebu are reviewing current safety protocols, driver training programs, and measures to ensure that motorcycles and other vehicles are properly registered and operated legally. Community leaders have joined calls for public awareness campaigns to promote safer driving habits, while local courts reaffirm their commitment to supporting the families of victims and pursuing justice in accordance with the law.

In remembering Judge Pasquin, colleagues and community members highlight her approachable demeanor, her dedication to fair and impartial justice, and her ability to balance professional responsibility with personal warmth. Her career trajectory, from a solo practitioner to a respected presiding judge, demonstrates the heights that dedication and integrity can achieve in public service. While her life was tragically cut short, her contributions to the Judiciary and the community she served leave a lasting legacy, inspiring both current and future members of the legal profession to uphold the values she embodied.

The incident serves as a critical lesson for all road users: vigilance, discipline, and adherence to traffic laws are not merely legal obligations but essential practices that protect human life. As Cebu mourns the loss of Judge Pasquin, authorities continue to stress the importance of safe driving, responsible vehicle operation, and respect for others on the road, ensuring that tragedies like this are minimized in the future.