By CHRIS V. PANGANIBAN
SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur – Governor Johnny T. Pimentel of Surigao del Sur is currently recovering after being involved in a vehicular accident on Friday, March 20.
The incident, which occurred in the afternoon, has raised concerns, but as of the latest update, no specific details regarding the nature of his injuries have been released.
According to a press statement from the Office of the Governor, after the crash, Pimentel was immediately transported to a medical facility for prompt attention. The statement assured the public that the Governor is in stable condition, following 24 hours of observation and care. He continues to receive medical treatment and is under the close monitoring of his physicians.
Despite the incident, government operations continue as usual, with no disruptions to public service. The Office of the Governor emphasized that it will provide further updates as necessary, but urged the public to rely only on official statements to avoid the spread of misinformation.
“We are thankful for the public’s prayers and well-wishes, and we ask for continued support during this time. Please stay informed through official channels for accurate updates,” the statement read.
The Surigao del Sur Police Provincial Office (SDSPPO), led by PCol Jeffrey Lawrence D. Mauricio, confirmed the accident occurred at around 12:20 PM on March 20, 2026, at Sitio Puting Buhangin, Brgy. Bitaugan East, Cagwait. Initial reports indicated that Governor Pimentel, who was traveling on his metallic gray motorcycle from Hinatuan to Tandag City, lost control on a slippery curve and crashed into a steel post.
Although details regarding the full extent of the injuries have not been disclosed, the local police quickly responded to the scene. The Governor was stabilized and evacuated by a coordinated effort from the Cagwait LGU-SERTS Ambulance and the 1st Surigao del Sur Provincial Mobile Force Company. He was then transported to the Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center in Tandag City for further evaluation and care.
Mauricio expressed gratitude for the swift response of the emergency teams and took the opportunity to remind motorists to exercise caution on slippery and curved roads to avoid similar incidents.
“We are relieved that the Governor is in stable condition. Our thoughts are with him and his family, and we wish for his speedy recovery. Please stay safe on the roads,” PCOL Mauricio said.
Provincial Administrator John Vincent Pimentel confirmed that his father has been airlifted to Manila for specialized medical treatment. Representative Alexander Pimentel also posted on social media, expressing his gratitude for the public’s support and updating that the Governor is recovering in Manila.
“Governor Johnny is steadily improving, and your prayers and well-wishes have been a source of strength for him,” Rep. Pimentel shared.
As the governor continues to recover, the Office of the Governor will provide further updates as soon as more information becomes available. For now, the public is urged to stay informed through official channels.
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