LTFRB summons bus operator over fatal Manila crash

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) said on Sunday that it summoned the operator of a passenger bus involved in a fatal road crash along España Boulevard in Sampaloc, Manila.

LTFRB acting Chair Greg Pua said the bus operator needs to explain why its Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) should not be suspended or canceled over the road crash on Friday night.

The bus collided with a jeepney and other vehicles, killing a senior citizen and injuring eight others.

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In police custody

The driver, who is now in police custody, has claimed that he lost his brakes before the collision.

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“Both cases are in violation of the existing CPC conditions, one for not ensuring the roadworthiness of the public utility vehicle, and the other one is employment of a reckless driver,” Pua said in a press release.

The LTFRB said the hearing is scheduled on Thursday, Sept. 17, to determine possible appropriate sanctions.

Pua said the operator is expected to bring necessary documents related to the roadworthiness of the public utility vehicle involved.

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He added that necessary tests will be conducted to determine whether the driver was under the influence of any substance during the incident, which involved at least six vehicles.

The crash caused traffic along España Boulevard, a busy thoroughfare in Manila’s University Belt.

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The Regional Franchising and Regulatory Office of the National Capital Region has been directed to ensure that insurance payments are provided to the victims.

“Each fatality involving PUVs is entitled to P400,000 while injured victims are entitled to P100,000 each,” it said.

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Police earlier said the driver may be charged with reckless imprudence resulting in homicide, multiple physical injuries, and multiple damages to property. /cb