Cheng Family Calls for Expanded NBI Probe into Fatal Hit-and-Run Incident
In a heartfelt statement issued on Thursday, February 26, 2026, the family of the late businessman Kingston Ralph Cheng has formally requested the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) 7 to broaden its investigation into the tragic incident that claimed his life. They are urging authorities to scrutinize potential enforcement failures related to Republic Act 10586, commonly known as the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013, along with its associated rules and regulations.
Seeking Justice and Systemic Reforms
The family expressed gratitude towards the NBI for initiating a parallel investigation and collecting evidence that could lead to charges against individuals suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. They highlighted concerns over the absence of critical procedures during the initial response, such as field sobriety tests, alcohol breath analyzers, and chemical or drug examinations, which they believe may weaken the legal case.
Emphasizing their commitment to cooperation, the family stated they will continue to assist investigators in evaluating all available evidence. Their post-incident inquiry aims to identify procedural gaps or delays that hindered proper law enforcement, with the hope that findings will drive meaningful reforms to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Details of the Tragic Event
The fatal hit-and-run occurred on February 8, 2026, in Barangay Banilad, Cebu City, involving 21-year-old Sean Andrew Pajarillo and Kingston Ralph Cheng. According to police reports, the suspect first collided with a parked Toyota Vios near One Paseo before striking Cheng, who was walking along Paseo Saturnino Road, and propelling him against a utility pole.
Instead of stopping, Pajarillo fled at high speed towards Maria Luisa Subdivision, where his vehicle overturned several meters inside the gated community. Cheng was pronounced dead upon arrival at a nearby hospital, while Pajarillo was taken to Chong Hua Hospital Mandaue for injuries sustained in the crash and subsequently placed under hospital arrest.
Legal Proceedings and Family's Plea
The Cebu City Police Office has filed charges for reckless imprudence resulting in homicide against Pajarillo, who posted bail and is currently facing trial. In their statement, the Cheng family poignantly remarked, "No one—be it a father, a mother, a husband, a wife, a brother, or a sister—must suffer the heartbreak of losing a loved one as we did." This appeal underscores their desire for justice and systemic improvements to safeguard others from similar losses.
