LTO-Western Visayas summons dump truck driver in fatal Silay mishap
BACOLOD CITY – The Land Transportation Office (LTO)-Western Visayas has issued a show-cause order to a 30-year-old dump truck driver involved in a tragic accident that left seven people dead in Barangay Guimbalaon, Silay City, Negros Occidental on June 27.
The order signed by LTO-E.B. Magalona District chief Reuben Tampos in Negros Occidental and approved by LTO-Western Visayas Regional Director Gaudioso Geduspan II directed Hernane Masa to explain the circumstances surrounding the crash within five calendar days. Failure to respond will be considered a waiver of his right to be heard.
The LTO cited a police investigation confirming the death of seven people when a mini-dump truck owned by the Silay City government veered off course, hit a concrete barrier, and overturned, throwing several passengers from the vehicle due to a reported brake failure.
The vehicle was carrying 24 individuals, who were government workers, from a tree-planting activity when the accident happened.
The LTO cited violations of Sections 18, 32, and 48 of Republic Act 4136 or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code that requires vehicles to display valid number plates, mandate the exercise of due care, and prohibit reckless driving.
LTO-Western Visayas Assistant Regional Director Jeck Conlu underscored the importance of vehicle maintenance and strict compliance in preventing road tragedies.
The enforcement action is part of a broader national crackdown on negligent driving, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive. Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon and LTO chief Vigor Mendoza II are leading the nationwide initiative with full support from Western Visayas officials.
Police said that the driver has been released from hospital arrest after no charges were filed against him. He is recuperating at home.