Matteo Guidicelli addressed concerns after a vehicle rammed into the al fresco dining area of their family’s Italian restaurant in Muntinlupa City on the afternoon of February 8, clarifying that the incident involved a “very innocent woman” who panicked and accidentally pressed the acceleration of her car instead of the brakes.
In a video shared on Facebook, the actor personally showed the extent of the damage, walking viewers through the affected outdoor area, which was visibly destroyed following the crash. Tables and chairs were scattered across the space, while parts of the structure had collapsed.
According to Matteo, the vehicle was coming from Westgate, Alabang when it rammed into the restaurant’s al fresco area at around 4 p.m. He said the timing of the incident prevented a more serious situation.
“We’re very thankful that there were no more guests here around because [from] 12 noon to around 2 p.m we were full house outside. We are very blessed that God was with us. Wala nang tao when this happened,” he said.
As he moved closer to the vehicle, Matteo pointed out the damage caused by the crash, noting that the SUV went straight into their pizza oven and destroyed all those things in the area. He also shared that two staff members were resting inside a converted stock room at the time.
“All the tables and chairs were all washed out. This was my pizza oven. This was a room that was made into a stock room, and I had two people sleeping in there because it was break time,” he said.
“They both got hit. They are in the hospital right now as we speak (February 8) but they are okay. They are getting medical attention right now,” he assured.
After arriving at the scene, Matteo said that one of his first actions was to coordinate with the security guard and check the vehicle’s gearbox.
“It was already in ‘park’. Ibig sabihin, the driver placed it in park, she had the presence of mind to still put it in park,” he shared.
Addressing online questions, Matteo clarified that the woman driving the vehicle was neither drunk nor under the influence.
“No, she’s a very innocent, beautiful lady that just panicked, blacked out, and pressed on the gas instead of the brakes,” he said.
“That’s what happened. It can happen to anybody out there. Young, old, male, female – it can happen to anyone.”
He added that the incident serves as a reminder for people to remain aware of their surroundings at all times.
“I think the lesson here is always [to] be aware. Watch your surroundings and be careful all the time because this can happen anywhere. If you guys are eating wherever or walking anywhere, just be aware. Be attentive to your surroundings,” Matteo said.
Following the incident, he shared: “We are just waiting for the insurance to come in, to clear out everything so we can move out the car and continue business,” he said.
The damage was limited to the exterior portion of the restaurant, which has been temporarily closed for safety and repairs. Matteo said that the indoor dining area remains open to guests.
Netizens quickly took to social media to express their appreciation and gratitude to Matteo for being so calm and understanding despite the situation.
“Matteo spoke so kindly and calmly in times of chaos. You can feel no anger towards the lady driver who made a mistake,” one note.
“You have a good heart Matteo. Bless you and your family! ❤️,” a netizen added.
“Life is more important than anything else. Thank God nobody was seriously hurt,” another wrote.
In the caption of his post, Matteo reiterated his message of understanding and caution.
“At the end of the day, ladies and gentlemen, it’s very important to always be aware of your surroundings. Be safe, and keep your family safe. This was an incident involving a very innocent woman who panicked and pressed the gas instead of the brakes,” he wrote.
“It can happen to anyone, anywhere, anytime. On a lighter note, business continues. Cleanup starts. Stay safe, everyone,” he maintained.