(MB FILE PHOTO)
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has suspended for 30 days the operation of a passenger jeepney that allegedly hit and killed a 43-year-old motorcycle rider in San Mateo, Rizal.
The agency said it has launched an investigation into the fatal road crash, which occurred on Thursday, Aug. 20.
It also issued a show cause order (SCO) against the jeepney operator and directed the surrender of the vehicle’s license plate on or before the first hearing of the case on Sept. 4.
Acting LTFRB Chairperson Greg Pua said the suspension would remain in effect pending the results of the investigation.
Citing the initial police investigation, the LTFRB said the driver of the jeepney bearing license plate TWS 560 was allegedly speeding to pick up more passengers.
The driver reportedly overtook several vehicles and entered the opposite lane before colliding with the motorcycle.
The rider was rushed to the nearest hospital but was declared dead due to the serious injuries she sustained in the crash.
In the SCO, the LTFRB directed the operator to explain in a notarized written response why the jeepney’s franchise should not be revoked over several alleged violations, including the employment of a reckless driver.
The agency said its administrative investigation is separate from the probe being conducted by the Philippine National Police and other agencies into the driver’s possible criminal liability.
“We are saddened by this unfortunate incident and we in the LTFRB extend our deepest condolences to the family of the rider. We assure the family that we will expedite the investigation into this case in the interest of accountability and justice,” Pua said.
Jeep operator summoned over viral QC counterflow video
Meanwhile, the LTFRB has summoned the operator of a passenger jeepney caught counterflowing along Quirino Highway in Quezon City.
The agency said it issued an SCO directing the operator to explain in writing why the jeepney’s franchise should not be suspended or revoked for alleged violations of road safety rules.
The acting LTFRB chairperson said the hearing has been set for Sept. 3.
Per the agency, the alleged violations include failure to provide safe and comfortable transportation to commuters, as required under the conditions of the Certificate of Public Convenience, and the employment of a reckless driver.
The LTFRB issued the order after its social media team monitored a viral video showing the jeepney counterflowing along the busy highway.
Pua said the maneuver endangered other road users and warned public utility vehicle drivers against reckless behavior.
“Let this investigation serve as a strong message to the PUV drivers that the LTFRB will not tolerate this kind of behavior on the road. The public can be assured of our quick action on this matter,” he said.