Photo Courtesy: LTFRB
MANILA — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has summoned the operator and driver of a UV Express unit involved in a fatal road accident in Cubao, Quezon City, and imposed a 30-day suspension on the vehicle’s operations pending investigation.
The accident, which later went viral on social media, left one person dead and 21 others injured after the UV Express vehicle crashed into a concrete post.
LTFRB Chairman Vigor D. Mendoza II said the agency is investigating whether the incident was caused by driver negligence or a mechanical defect in the vehicle.
“We want to determine whether this has something to do with the roadworthiness of the vehicle or if the driver bears responsibility. We will know that through the investigation,” Mendoza said.
A police report submitted to the LTFRB showed that the crash happened at the corner of P. Tuazon Avenue and 15th Avenue in Cubao. The vehicle involved was reportedly operating under Metro Comet Transport Service Cooperative.
The LTFRB has also issued a Show Cause Order against the cooperative, directing it to explain why its franchise should not be suspended or revoked.
As part of the agency’s directive, the operator was ordered to notify the driver of his obligation to submit a written explanation, provide the maintenance records of the vehicle, require the driver to undergo a drug test, and ensure attendance at a road safety seminar.
The LTFRB said the move forms part of the government’s stricter enforcement of road safety measures in line with the administration’s directive to protect commuters and motorists.
A hearing on the case has been set for May 6.
The board warned that failure to comply with the Show Cause Order could lead to a P5,000 fine and a resolution based on the evidence already on record.
The UV Express unit will remain suspended while the investigation is ongoing.