Cordillera mourns untimely death of Igorot singer, Ivan Rufino after his motorcycle was struck by truck

La Trinidad, Benguet – The Cordillera music scene was shaken by the sudden death of well-loved Igorot musician Ivan Rufino after the motorcycle he was riding collided with a truck along the road in Km. 6, La Trinidad, on Sunday evening, March 23.

According to an initial report from the La Trinidad Municipal Police Station, the collision occurred when an Isuzu truck attempted to overtake a Toyota Hilux pickup.

In the process, the truck struck the oncoming Yamaha motorcycle ridden by Rufino.

The force of the impact threw Rufino and his motorcycle onto the road. Police said the motorcycle was completely wrecked, and Rufino sustained severe injuries.

Upon receiving the report, authorities rushed to the scene and brought Rufino to the Benguet General Hospital. Unfortunately, he was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician.

Meanwhile, the truck driver is now in police custody. The police report indicated that he failed to present a driver’s license at the time of the incident. He will face charges of reckless imprudence resulting in homicide and damage to property.

As of this writing, further investigation into the incident is ongoing.

For friends, fellow Cordillerans, and musicians, Rufino’s death is a personal loss. He was known not only for his songs and compositions but also for the warmth he carried both on and off the stage.

Among his popular songs are “Kaman Nina,” “Udan,” “Rikna,” and “Sungbat.”

Following news of his passing, social media was flooded with grief, as relatives and friends shared videos and photos in tribute to his life.

“One of the best bass players in Baguio I ever met. May ag inana kan ngarud nsan. Salamat sin panakikadkadwam en dakami, ya sin kakantam ay inbatim ay panglaglagipan me en sik-a. Sikan to mang kit kita kinyami ditoy nga nabati nga musikero,” wrote fellow Igorot singer Aladin in a mix of Ilocano and Kankanaey.

The TUBA’nian Musical Group added, “We will always admire not only your talent, but even more your kindness as a person. We had the privilege of sharing moments with you—laughing, playing music, and creating memories that we will forever cherish. Your genuine heart and humility made you not just a great artist but also a true friend and brother to many.”