John Kerby C. Cañelas, a third-year industrial engineering student, has died after suffering severe injuries in a jeepney crash in Mataas na Lupa, Indang, Cavite, on August 13, 2026. His death was announced on August 25, leaving his family, classmates and fellow student leaders mourning a young man who was still working toward his future.
Cañelas was a BS Industrial Engineering student in the 3-1 class. He was also involved in student organizations, including AMBUSH through its Committee on Audit and Risk Assessment, known as CARA. Those groups became an important part of his college life and helped him form close ties with other students.
The crash left Cañelas with a spinal cord injury and fractures to both femurs. He was taken to the University of Santo Tomas Hospital, where he received treatment and underwent surgery as doctors worked to deal with the serious injuries.
His hospitalization continued to take a heavy toll on his family. By August 24, medical expenses had reached ₱440,540.50, according to the student organizations that later appealed for help. The amount reflected the growing cost of his treatment during the extended hospital stay.
For people who knew him on campus, the news was more than the loss of a student. Cañelas was someone they had shared classes, organization work and everyday college experiences with. His death came while he was still pursuing a degree and preparing for a career in industrial engineering.
The CEIT Student Council and PIIE CVSU-SC expressed their condolences to the Cañelas family and called on the university community to support his loved ones. The groups also shared information for people who wanted to provide financial assistance after the medical bills placed additional pressure on the family.
Donations were listed through GCash account 0909 393 4701 under the name Yvette Cañelas, identified as John Kerby’s mother. Anyone planning to send money was encouraged to verify the details with the family or the relevant student organizations before making a transfer.
For his classmates and friends, John Kerby C. Cañelas is now remembered for the relationships he built during his time in college. His life was still taking shape, his education was still underway, and his plans for a future in industrial engineering had not yet been completed.
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