The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) ordered the temporary suspension of a UV Express unit involved in a road crash in Cubao, Quezon City, as it began an investigation into the incident.
The agency imposed a 30 day suspension on the vehicle after it rammed into a concrete post at the corner of P. Tuazon and 15th Avenue, leaving one person dead and at least 21 others injured.
Officials said the UV Express unit was operating under Metro Comet Transport Service Cooperative at the time of the accident, which later circulated widely on social media.
Authorities said a show cause order was issued to the transport cooperative, directing it to explain why its franchise should not face penalties, including possible suspension or cancellation.
The operator was also instructed to require the driver involved to submit a written explanation as part of the inquiry into possible reckless driving.
In addition, the cooperative was ordered to provide maintenance records of the vehicle and ensure that the driver undergoes drug testing and a road safety seminar.
The LTFRB said the probe would determine whether the crash was caused by mechanical issues or driver error, as part of efforts to strengthen road safety measures.
A hearing on the case was set for May 6, with authorities warning that failure to comply with the directive could result in a Php 5,000 fine and a ruling based on available evidence.