The trial of hit-and-run suspect Sean Pajarillo began on Thursday, April 23, 2026, coinciding with what would have been the 24th birthday of victim Kingston Ralph Cheng. Cheng died after a speeding vehicle driven by Pajarillo struck him in Barangay Banilad, Cebu City on February 8.
The opening trial at Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 17 focused on the defense's dual strategy: pursuing an out-of-court settlement while challenging the court's jurisdiction. Pajarillo's counsel, Julito Añora, stated that the defense is seeking an amicable settlement to avoid a prolonged trial.
Defense Strategy
While pursuing a settlement, the defense also moved to quash the case on jurisdictional grounds. Añora said RTC Branch 17 denied the motion, prompting the filing of a motion for reconsideration. He noted that the court denied it, but there are issues requiring clarification.
Family's Stance
Cheng's family remains resolute in pursuing the case. Lawyer Terence Fernandez, representing the family, said they are open to hearing any settlement offer but are prepared to proceed with trial. He added that the family is coping and wants the case to move forward, with the prosecution planning to present six to seven witnesses.
Evidence Delays
Proceedings slowed during the testimony of the prosecution's first witness, a traffic investigator who handled the crash scene. Although direct examination was completed, cross-examination was postponed after the defense claimed it had not received key documents, including judicial affidavits and CCTV footage. Añora requested the court to provide these documents for cross-examination, which will resume once they are formally submitted.
Emotional Aftermath
Pajarillo, who has recovered from injuries sustained in the crash, was seen crying after the hearing. Añora confirmed this but declined to comment further on the reason. The next hearings are scheduled for May 12 and June 23.
Outside the court in Barangay Kasambagan, Cheng's family and friends gathered wearing white shirts with the message "don't drink and drive" and holding banners calling for justice. They also urged amendments to Republic Act (RA) 10586, or the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013.
Legislative Push
The February 8 incident that led to Cheng's death has spurred legislative advocacy. The University of San Carlos College of Law, led by Dean Jose Glenn C. Capanas, submitted a proposal to the Senate to amend RA 10586. The proposal, "Vision Zero Philippines," aims to eliminate road fatalities. Key provisions include lowering blood alcohol concentration limits to 0.02 percent for novice and professional drivers and 0.03 percent for private motorists, adopting implied consent for chemical testing, imposing harsher penalties including reclusion perpetua for deaths in vulnerable zones such as schools and hospitals, and requiring alcohol screening within two hours of a collision.
Authorities said Cheng was thrown into a utility pole after being hit along Paseo Saturnino. Pajarillo had earlier struck a parked vehicle before fleeing. Photos and videos circulating online allegedly show Pajarillo leaving a bar shortly before the crash and appearing intoxicated.
