THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has issued a 30-day preventive suspension against a passenger jeepney following a fatal road accident that killed a 43-year-old female motorcycle rider on Thursday, August 20.
Under the direction of Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Giovanni “Banoy” Z. Lopez, the LTFRB launched a formal investigation and issued a Show Cause Order (SCO) against the jeepney operator.
The operator has been directed to surrender the vehicle’s license plate (TWS 560) on or before the initial hearing set for September 4.
According to initial findings by the local police, the jeepney driver was speeding in an attempt to pick up passengers.
The driver allegedly went on an overtaking spree and occupied the opposing lane, resulting in a head-on collision with the victim’s motorcycle.
The female rider was rushed to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead due to severe injuries sustained from the impact.
Acting LTFRB Chairman Atty. Greg G. Pua stated that the operator must submit a notarized explanation detailing why the franchise should not be revoked for violations, including the employment of a reckless driver.
“We are saddened by this unfortunate incident and we in the LTFRB extend our deepest condolences to the family of the rider. We assure the family that we will expedite the investigation into this case in the interest of accountability and justice,” Pua said.
DOTr Secretary Lopez has also ordered the regulatory board to ensure the prompt release of insurance payments to the victim’s family.
The LTFRB’s administrative proceedings remain independent of the criminal investigation being conducted by the Philippine National Police (PNP) against the jeepney driver.
