Cebu Hit-and-Run Suspect Tests Negative for Alcohol After Delayed Hospital Procedures
In a tragic incident in Cebu City, a 21-year-old driver involved in a fatal hit-and-run was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol, but subsequent tests revealed negative results after significant delays in hospital procedures. The case has highlighted challenges in police investigations within private medical facilities.
Early Morning Accident Leads to Suspected Drunk Driving
On Sunday, February 8, 2026, at approximately 12:53 a.m., a Toyota Innova struck and killed young businessman Kingston Ralph Cheng on Paseo Saturnino Maria Luisa Road in Barangay Banilad, Cebu City. Police Lieutenant Colonel Jose Los Baños, information officer of the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO), reported that the Traffic Enforcement Unit (TEU) responded swiftly after being alerted to the hit-and-run.
The suspect, identified as Sean Andrew Pajarillo, 21, was found and attended to by Emergency Medical Services personnel. During initial questioning, investigators noted a smell of alcohol on Pajarillo's breath, prompting them to prepare a request for liquor and drug tests.
Delays in Testing Due to Hospital Protocols
Pajarillo was quickly transported by ambulance to a private hospital in North Reclamation Area, Mandaue City, as requested by his father. However, investigators were unable to enter the Emergency Room, according to Los Baños, and had to wait outside.
By 2:00 p.m. that same day, Pajarillo was moved to a private room, leading police to follow up on their request for alcohol testing. The hospital's legal officer stated that the request needed to be sent through proper channels. At 4:00 p.m., the legal officer informed police that consent from both the suspect and his doctor was required before conducting the tests.
Finally, at 7:55 p.m., the tests were administered after the doctor provided consent. The results came back negative for both alcohol and drugs. Los Baños commented on the delay, noting, "You can imagine that from 1:50 a.m. when he was taken to the hospital in Mandaue, it was 4:00 p.m. on the same date before the doctor signed and gave permission."
Police Limitations and Legal Proceedings
Los Baños acknowledged that police work has limitations, especially when dealing with private hospitals where they cannot intervene directly. On Monday, February 9, 2026, lawyers representing the victim met with TEU investigators to prepare a case of Reckless Imprudence Resulting in Homicide, including drafting affidavits.
He clarified that videos circulating on social media could be used by the victim's family as evidence in court to support claims that Pajarillo was under the influence, despite the negative test results. Meanwhile, the owner of a Toyota Vios that was initially hit by the suspect has filed an affidavit of desistance, choosing not to pursue charges.
This case underscores the complexities of traffic accident investigations in the Philippines, where procedural delays and legal hurdles can impact the pursuit of justice.
