Filipino survivor of tour bus crash in New York recounts ordeal

NEW YORK – A 38-year-old Filipino based in Qatar recounted the harrowing moments after surviving last week’s fatal tour bus crash in New York, describing scenes of blood and chaos as he escaped the wreckage.  

Richard Robles was among 54 passengers aboard the bus traveling from Niagara Falls to New York City when it overturned in Pembroke, about 30 miles east of Buffalo, on Friday, killing five and injuring dozens,

Authorities respond to a large accident involving a tour bus on the eastbound I-90 near Pembroke, N.Y., Friday, Aug. 22, 2025. (Libby March/The Buffalo News via AP)

In an interview with The New York Times, Robles recalled climbing out of the toppled bus, seeing injured fellow passengers and hearing their cries for help. “My mindset was to get off the bus,” he said. “There was so much blood. So many wounds.”  

Robles sustained only minor injuries and was discharged from the hospital that evening. A friend traveling with him was released the following morning.  

You may like: Filipinos among victims of tour bus crash in New York

On Monday, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed that Robles and two other Filipino tourists who were injured in the crash have been discharged from hospitals and cleared for travel.  

Citing a report from the Philippine Consulate General in New York, the DFA said the three, all residents of Qatar on vacation in the United States, will be assisted until their departure.  

“A consulate representative will meet them to ascertain their needs and ensure their welfare until their scheduled departure,” the DFA said.  

DFA spokesperson Ambassador Angelica Escalona told Super Radyo dzBB that the three are safe and out of danger. 

“Yes, good news po. Good na sila (Yes, it’s good news. They are now fine),” she said, adding that strict US privacy protocols often delay the release of information on Filipino casualties abroad.  

Robles said he intends to return to New York City with his friends by train or airplane, grateful to have walked away from what he called a nightmare.

The post Filipino survivor of tour bus crash in New York recounts ordeal appeared first on USNewsRank.