Frantic individuals rushed to seize bills that spilled along the Cebu South Road viaduct, after a motorcyclist’s backpack, containing PHP4 million (US$71,957) in cash broke open.
Major Jonathan Taneo, chief of the Mambaling Police Station, disclosed that the rider in question, identified as John Mark Barrientos, was employed at a mall’s e-wallet loading kiosk. Unaware that the cash had started to spill out of his backpack while in transit, Barrientos only became aware of the money’s airborne trajectory when he was already 50km away.
Videos capturing the scene swiftly made their way onto social media platforms, showcasing a mixed response from onlookers and fellow motorists. Some Good Samaritans were observed rushing to assist in gathering the scattered bills that blanketed the highway, while others chose to seize the opportunity for personal gain, pocketing the cash for themselves.
Law enforcement authorities have reported that approximately PHP2 million of the spilled cash has been returned as of writing.
Major Taneo issued a plea urging the public to surrender the remaining amount to authorities.
Authorities are now reviewing videos and CCTV footage to identify those who were present during the incident.
