The Voice Philippines season 2 contestant Kokoi Baldo, whose real name is Juan Manuel Ubaldo, passed away earlier this morning, December 8, due to a vehicular accident. The accident took place at Circumferential Road in Purok Active, Brgy.

Mandalagan, Bacolod City in Bacolod.

Kokoi was 44 years old.

READ: Sarah Geronimo shocks The Voice PH viewers by saying goodbye to Kokoi Baldo

According to several reports, Kokoi was riding a motorcycle at one in the morning and he tried to overtake a vehicle in front of him. He then lost control of his motorcycle and was unfortunately run over by a 10-wheeler truck carrying sugarcane that caused his death.

The 44-year-old singer’s head was reportedly severed from his body due to the massive impact of the accident.  

The truck driver is currently detained in Police Station 3 according to reports.

Meanwhile, the manager and wife of Kokoi posted on his official Facebook account to announce the passing of the singer.

READ: Anne at Kokoi, nag-showdown sa kantahan

“It is with a heavy heart to inform the public, especially the fans, that Kokoi Baldo has passed away earlier this morning,” his wife Sam wrote.

“We kindly ask for privacy during this hard time in respect to his family and friends. He will be missed, loved and forever in our hearts,” the statement went on.

The manager added that updates and more information about the late singer’s burial plans will be posted as soon as they are available.

In a separate post, his wife asked netizens to take down posts of the accident scene.

“I am humbly asking everyone to take down the posts pertaining to my husband, Kokoi Baldo's accident scene as it is already causing distress to our entire family.  If you see any posts of the said accident, please ask the owner of the post to delete,” she wrote.

Kokoi was dubbed as the Bob Marley of the Philippines for his reggae style of singing. He rose to popularity after competing in The Voice Philippines season 2 under Sarah Geronimo's team.