QUEZON CITY, PHILIPPINES — A late-night drive took a literal dive early Sunday morning, July 5, 2026 after a driver allegedly operating under the influence lost control of their vehicle, sending an SUV plunging straight into a local creek.

The incident, which drew a crowd of shocked onlookers, has once again highlighted the persistent dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol on the busy streets of Metro Manila.

The accident occurred during the pre-dawn hours along a stretch of road running parallel to a concrete drainage creek in Quezon City. According to initial reports from local traffic investigators and barangay watchmen, the sports utility vehicle was traveling at a significant speed when it suddenly veered off course.

Witnesses stated that the vehicle clipped the curb, smashed through a minimal safety barrier, and tipped over the edge, nose-diving into the shallow water and mud below. Emergency responders rushed to the scene after receiving distress calls from nearby residents who heard the loud impact.

Upon arriving at the creek, rescue teams managed to safely extricate the driver from the partially submerged cabin of the SUV. Miraculously, despite the drop and the heavy damage sustained by the front end of the vehicle, the driver escaped without life-threatening injuries.

However, first responders and traffic police immediately noticed signs of heavy intoxication. Law enforcement officers at the scene reported that the driver smelled strongly of alcohol and was visibly disoriented, struggling to stand steadily or speak clearly when questioned about how the vehicle lost control.

A heavy-duty tow truck and crane were dispatched to the site to hoist the crippled SUV out of the waterway, a process that drew a crowd of curious onlookers and briefly slowed down early-morning traffic in the immediate area.

The driver was taken into custody and transported to a nearby medical facility for a formal blood alcohol content (BAC) test and evaluation. Quezon City police authorities confirmed that an official investigation is underway, and the motorist faces severe legal charges, including reckless imprudence resulting in damage to property and driving under the influence of alcohol in violation of Republic Act 10586 (the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act).