The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has ordered the 30-day preventive suspension of five Rural Transit Mindanao Inc. (RTMI) units after a deadly crash in Zamboanga del Sur claimed two lives and injured 28 others.
The move follows the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to prioritize the safety and welfare of commuters nationwide. Department of Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon and LTFRB Chairperson Teofilo Guadiz III led the swift response to the incident.
According to reports, one of RTMI’s buses, bearing plate number ACA 8147, lost control, crashed into a tree, and fell into a roadside ditch in Purok 4, Barangay Mahayag, Dumingag on July 10.
In response, the LTFRB issued a Show Cause Order directing the operator to explain within five days why its franchise should not face further sanctions. A hearing has been set for July 17, 2025, at the LTFRB Regional Office in Cagayan de Oro City.
“This tragic incident is unacceptable,” said Guadiz. “The LTFRB is acting decisively in line with President Marcos’ directive to uphold commuter safety. We will not tolerate violations that endanger lives.”
Guadiz reminded operators of their duty to ensure passenger safety: “Providing transportation is not enough. Protecting lives is part of that responsibility. If you fail in that duty, your privilege to operate will be revoked.”
LTFRB guidelines require all operators to report serious accidents within 72 hours. The suspension is being enforced under Memorandum Circular No. 2011-004.
The agency stressed that this action reflects the national government’s commitment to holding transport operators accountable and ensuring a safe, dependable public transport system.
All public utility operators are urged to comply with safety protocols and support the government’s push for safer and more reliable transportation.