LTFRB summons operator of bus in Camarines Sur mishap

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has summoned the operator of a passenger bus that figured in a crash along Maharlika Highway in Camarines Sur last weekend.

In a statement, the LTFRB said it has issued a show cause order (SCO) against the bus operator following the April 25 mishap in Barangay Sigamot in Libmanan town that left several passengers injured.

LTFRB chair Vigor Mendoza II said the bus operator was asked to explain in notarized writing why its Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) should not be suspended or revoked over the incident.

“The investigation will give both the operator and the driver to explain their side. I expect them to cooperate because it’s their franchise that is at stake here,” Mendoza said.

The SCO tasked the bus operator to bring the bus driver involved in the incident to a scheduled hearing on May 14.

Part of the initial investigation requirement is for the bus driver to undergo a mandatory drug test and a road safety seminar.

The bus operator, on the other hand, was told to bring all the documents pertaining to the preventive maintenance of the bus involved.

“Failure on your part to appear on the date and time stated herein shall be construed as a waiver on your part to be heard and this case shall be decided on the basis of the records,” the SCO said.

Mendoza also ordered the LTFRB’s director in the Bicol region to assist the injured passengers in processing their insurance claims and payment. — JMA, GMA News