LTFRB issues show cause order vs. bus operator in fatal Camarines Sur crash

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has issued a show cause order against the operator of a passenger bus that rammed into a rescue vehicle in Ragay, Camarines Sur, a road mishap that left at least five people dead.

Citing an initial police report, the LTFRB said the bus was heading to Tabaco, Albay when the driver was surprised by a plastic barrier at Andaya Highway.

The bus driver allegedly swerved in the opposite direction, causing him to hit a rescue vehicle. At left five people died and no less than eight others were injured.  

According to a report on Saksi on Wednesday night, six people were killed in the incident. The report said the fatalities were employees of the Lupi local government unit who were on their way to an outing.

The LTFRB said the driver left after the mishap, but eventually returned to surrender.

It added that the operation of the passenger bus has been suspended pending the result of the investigation.

"This was an unfortunate incident that the bus driver, through the bus company, needs to explain a lot. We have already started getting information regarding the incident and we want to hear the side of the driver and the bus company in the interest of due process," said LTFRB chairperson Atty. Vigor Mendoza II.

"We in the LTFRB extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victims who died in this tragic incident. We assure them that justice will be served," he added.

Meanwhile, the LTO in Bicol (Region 5) ordered the release of insurance payments for the injured and the kin of the deceased victims. — VDV, GMA News