THE ill-fated Baguio-bound bus. (Photo via Zaldy Comanda)
BAGUIO CITY – The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) suspended 24 buses of North Genesis Bus Line Inc. for 30 days following a collision between a bus and a truck on Marcos Highway here early Tuesday morning, June 16.
The bus conductor was killed and six passengers were injured.
LTFRB Chairperson Vigor D. Mendoza II said the suspension effective June 17 aligns with directives from Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Giovanni “Banoy” Z. Lopez.
The suspension will allow authorities to thoroughly investigate if the operator violated the terms and conditions of their Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC).
"We are committed to an impartial and unbiased investigation, not only because this is our mandate, but because the lives and limbs of commuters are at stake when it comes to public transportation," Mendoza said.
The LTFRB issued a show-cause order to North Genesis Bus Line ordering immediate drug testing for all drivers alongside comprehensive roadworthiness inspections for the 24 suspended buses.
The agency also ordered bus management to submit a notarized explanation detailing why they should not face administrative penalties for employing a negligent driver.
To ensure strict compliance with the order, Mendoza ordered the operator to surrender the license plates of all 24 suspended units.
Mendoza said the company must expedite insurance payouts to the family of the conductor and injured.
The LTFRB-Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) was directed to closely monitor the processing and compliance of insurance claims.
Mendoza reminded Public Utility Vehicle operators and drivers nationwide that road safety is a non-negotiable responsibility. "The trust and confidence given by passengers must be repaid through safe travel," he said.