LTFRB summons operator of bus in 7-vehicle collision in Manila where 1 died, 9 injured
The Land Transportation and Franchising Regulatory Board has issued a show cause order to the operator of a passenger bus involved in a multiple-vehicle collision along España Boulevard, which left one person dead and nine others injured.
In a statement on Sept. 13, LTFRB Acting Chairman Atty. Greg Pua Jr. said that Viofel Transport Inc. must explain why its Certificate of Public Convenience should not be suspended or canceled over the fatal incident. It reportedly took place in front of the gate of the University of Santo Tomas.
The Manila Police District said that the accident happened after the bus's brakes malfunctioned. "It hit an SUV, which in turn hit a minibus and the jeeps," Lt. Abelardo Aguilar said.
Pua reported that some witnesses also claimed to have seen the bus speeding before the crash.
"Both cases are in violation of the existing CPC road conditions, one for not ensuring the roadworthiness of the PUV, and the other one is employment of a reckless driver," he said.
Authorities are still investigating the incident to determine its cause. A hearing is set for Sept. 17.
Pua has also ordered the Regional Franchising and Regulatory Office of the National Capital Region to ensure insurance payments are made to the victims of the accident.
According to the LTFRB, fatalities involving PUVs are entitled to P400,000 while individuals who sustained injuries are entitled to P100,000.
Seven vehicles were involved in the Friday night road crash: two buses, two SUVs, two jeepneys, and a motorcycle. It resulted in the death of one senior citizen.