The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will suspend the permit of the operator of a modern jeepney in Bulacan over the fatal accident on Tuesday, Jan. 14, that left two people dead in Calumpit town.

LTFRB chairperson Teofilo Guadiz III said a thorough investigation is now being conducted to determine all the circumstances that led to the road accident along MacArthur Highway Calumpit town involving a modern jeepney with Plate No. NIF 2746.

He said the modern jeepney is owned and operated by Carmexss TSC.

"We have already coordinated with LTFRB Region 3 to conduct the investigation. I gave them 15 days to submit the result of the investigation. We are issuing a preventive suspension so as not to preempt the ongoing investigation," said Guadiz.  

Citing initial reports, Guadiz said the modern jeepney allegedly overtook another motor vehicle and as a result, it hit a tricycle travelling in the opposite direction.

He said the impact threw the two vehicles off the bridge, killing the tricycle driver and one of the three tricycle passengers. Among those injured were two tricycle passengers and the jeepney passengers, who were mostly students.

“The LTFRB noted that upon issuance of the preventive suspension, the involved unit will not be allowed to ply its route for 30 days pending the result of the investigation,” said Guadiz.

He then reminded all public utility vehicle operators and drivers to strictly adhere to traffic rules and regulations to ensure the safety of their passengers and other road users.

“Reckless driving and negligence not only endanger lives but also result in severe penalties, including preventive suspensions and possible revocation of franchises. We urge operators to consistently monitor their drivers’ compliance with road safety standards to prevent such tragic incidents,” said Guadiz.