More than 20 passengers were injured in the accident Saturday in Pugo town, in the northern province of La Union.

A police report said the victims were on their way home from a visit to the mountain city of Baguio, a favorite destination for its cool weather, when the accident occurred.

Investigators said the vehicle's brakes could have malfunctioned.

Eight of the victims died one of the spot, while four expired in hospital, police said.