LTFRB summons viral bus driver who ignored red traffic light

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Sunday summoned the operator of a passenger bus that disregarded a traffic light as shown in a viral video on social media.

In a statement, the LTFRB said it also asked the bus driver to explain in writing why he should not be punished for reckless driving.

“This incident, which I personally saw on Facebook, compromised not only the safety of the bus passengers but also other road users. We will not let this pass,” LTRFB chairperson Vigor Mendoza II said.

A viral video on social media showed the bus driver speeding and crossing an intersection while the red traffic light was still on.

The LTFRB said the bus company has a franchise for North Luzon routes.

The bus operator may face the suspension or cancellation of this franchise for employing a reckless driver.

The bus operator and driver were both ordered to submit explanations in writing and attend an online hearing on April 23 at 9 a.m.

“Failure on the part of the respondent-operator to appear before the Hearing Officer, and, to file an Answer shall be considered as a waiver on its part to be heard and shall cause the imposition of a penalty in the amount of P5,000,” the LTFRB show cause order (SCO) said.

Mendoza said they also want to find out if there are other violations committed and if the bus driver was physically and mentally fit at the time of the incident.

“Let us do away with the ‘siga’ mentality on the road because you are driving a bigger motor vehicle. Buhay ng tao ang nakataya dito at titiyakin natin na mananagot ang sinumang may ganitong asal sa daan (People’s lives are at stake here and we will make sure that there will be accountability for such behaviors on the road),” he said.

The LTFRB chief also thanked the netizen who posted the video, adding that reporting abusive drivers help a lot in ensuring road courtesy, discipline, and safety. — JMA, GMA News