MORE than a month after a tragic road accident claimed the life of tricycle driver Jerry Arcilla, his grieving family says their ordeal is far from over.
Instead of finding peace after laying their loved one to rest, they now find themselves fighting what they describe as a relentless campaign to shift blame onto the victim and tarnish his memory.
The family of Jerry Arcilla, who was killed in a collision involving a truck on April 23, 2026, in Subic, Zambales, has strongly condemned statements allegedly made by Aim High Logistics, a trucking firm owned by Ranildo Maningding.
In a press conference, Josefa “Kikay” Arcilla Estigoy, the victim’s sister, said the company recently reiterated on social media allegations that Jerry was under the influence of alcohol when the accident occurred.
She said such claims could unfairly shape public opinion against her brother, who is no longer alive to defend himself.
Seeking assistance from the media, Arcilla expressed frustration that instead of addressing possible shortcomings related to the incident, the company allegedly chose to focus on her brother’s condition prior to the crash.
“Jerry can no longer speak for himself,” she said, emphasizing that the continued circulation of such allegations has caused further pain to a family already struggling with loss.
Arcilla also revealed that while they accepted financial assistance coursed through truck driver Hector Macapagal, the support was used solely to cover hospital bills, funeral expenses, and burial costs.
However, she maintained that other forms of assistance that had reportedly been promised to the family were never delivered.
The victim’s sister likewise voiced disappointment over the settlement process that followed the accident.
She explained that she agreed to discussions only to ensure that her brother would receive a proper burial and to finally bring closure to the tragedy.
She stressed that financial considerations were never the driving force behind the family’s decisions and said she was deeply hurt by insinuations suggesting that they bore responsibility for what happened.
Beyond the trucking company, Arcilla also questioned several social media pages, particularly a local Facebook page identified as “Subic Zambales,” which she claimed had been defending personalities linked to the firm.
Despite her grievances, Arcilla expressed gratitude to the local government of Subic, led by Mayor Jon Khonghun and Representative Jay Khonghun,
for extending assistance to their family during one of the most difficult periods of their lives.
As the controversy continues to stir emotions online, Arcilla stood firm in her appeal for fairness and compassion.
“What we cannot accept,” she said, “is the continued blaming of a man who has already paid the highest price — his own life.”
For the Arcilla family, the issue is no longer merely about the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash. It is about preserving the dignity and reputation of a loved one whose voice has been silenced forever.
About the Author
