The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has suspended 24 buses operated by North Genesis Bus Line following a road crash in Baguio City that killed a bus conductor and injured eight passengers.

The accident happened on the Marcos Highway when a bus hit a truck parked by the road. Authorities said the truck was undergoing repairs at a curve along a two-way road when the crash occurred.

LTFRB suspended the bus units preventively for 30 days while investigation is ongoing. The operator of the truck involved was also issued a show cause order.

PBGen. Glenn Dumlao (ret.), regional director of the Department of Transportation–Cordillera Administrative Region, said the truck was parked improperly and lacked proper warning devices.

“Kasi doon sa mismong kurbada na two-way, tumigil ‘yung truck, doon siya nagri-repair, which is talagang mali. Walang kaukulang warning device, dahon lang ‘yung nilagay,” Dumlao said.

The LTFRB also directed the bus company to submit all drivers for drug testing and have all bus units inspected for roadworthiness.

Dumlao stressed the need for stricter mechanical checks using more advanced inspection systems.

“Kailangan talaga PMVIC (Private Motor Vehicle Inspection Center), hindi ‘yung PETC (Private Emission Testing Center), ‘yung usok-usok na ‘yan. Isali na natin ‘yung computerized diagnosis kasi doon talaga nagkakaroon ng problema sa mechanical,” he added.

The suspension has affected commuters traveling to and from the Cordillera region. Another bus company serving the same route had earlier been suspended following a separate accident.

Authorities said investigations into the crash are ongoing as they continue to gather statements and evidence from all parties involved.