MANILA, Philippines – A 17-year-old motorcycle rider hit two runners after entering Ayala Avenue during Makati City’s weekly "Car-Free Sunday" on August 30, 2026.
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| Photo courtesy: Facebook/James Deakin |
According to the Makati police, the incident happened at around 9:20 a.m. along Ayala Avenue in Barangay Bel-Air while the road was closed to motorists.
The rider reportedly came from EDSA and was heading toward Paseo de Roxas when he entered the closed road.
The rider told police that he proceeded because he did not see any barrier blocking the route.
The motorcycle then struck two runners, who were friends running together in the area, with the impact leaving both injured.
Transport journalist and road safety advocate James Deakin earlier shared the incident on Facebook, saying the rider sped past runners before hitting the two victims and crashing.
“Just before 9, a reckless motorcycle rider sped past me and other runners on Ayala Ave, which is closed to motorists,” Deakin said.
“He then hit two runners and crashed,” he added.
Several witnesses on Reddit also described the motorcycle as traveling at high speed before the collision near the Ayala Triangle.
One witness estimated that the motorcycle was traveling at around 60 to 70 kilometers per hour before it struck the runners.
Another witness said one runner appeared conscious and was sitting up, while the other appeared unconscious on the road shortly after the collision.
The 36-year-old runner suffered a head wound that required stitches, while his 34-year-old companion also sustained a head injury.
Police said neither runner suffered any bone fractures, and both were brought to a hospital for treatment.
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| Photo courtesy: Reddit |
The rider was also taken to a hospital after sustaining injuries to his nose and knee.
All three individuals involved are currently in stable condition, according to police.
Witnesses previously reported that the rider was seen seated on the road after the crash, with one account saying he was wearing handcuffs.
Police are continuing their investigation, and the rider may face a complaint for reckless imprudence resulting in multiple injuries.
Car-Free Sundays at Ayala Avenue are held every Sunday from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., covering Ayala Avenue and the Ayala Triangle Gardens Fitness Loop.
The initiative, which began in 2023, provides an open space for runners, cyclists, families, and other members of the community to engage in active mobility and wellness activities.
The incident comes days before Car-Free Sundays marks its third anniversary on September 6.
— The Summit Express
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