The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will summon the operator of a modern jeepney that was caught on video experiencing mechanical problems along a road in San Jose del Monte City, Bulacan, raising concerns over vehicle maintenance and roadworthiness.

Acting LTFRB Chairman Greg Pua said the agency would issue a show cause order against SPTG Transport Service Cooperative, requiring it to explain the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The investigation follows the circulation of a viral video showing a modern jeepney moving back and forth in the middle of a road while emitting thick white smoke.

Pua said the LTFRB was determining whether passengers were inside the vehicle when the incident occurred.

“We are investigating if there were passengers inside. But even if there was none, that incident compromised the safety of other road users,” Pua said.

He stressed that the incident raised questions about whether the operator had properly maintained the vehicle and complied with requirements ensuring that public utility vehicles were safe for road use.

“This incident goes down to the issue of whether or not proper maintenance is being done for that unit. We will investigate what happened and we will find out if the operator has been complying with the condition for them to ensure that all its units are roadworthy,” he added.

The LTFRB said it would require the cooperative to submit the maintenance records of the vehicle involved to determine whether regular inspections and necessary repairs had been conducted.

The agency will also inspect other units operated by the cooperative to assess their roadworthiness and compliance with public transport safety regulations.

The investigation is being undertaken under the guidance of Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon as part of efforts to strengthen passenger safety and accountability among public utility vehicle operators.

Meanwhile, Pua thanked members of the public who report traffic violations and unsafe vehicle conditions by sharing photos and videos on social media.

He said the LTFRB’s social media monitoring team uses such reports to identify possible violations and initiate appropriate action.

The LTFRB also reminded all public utility vehicle operators of their responsibility to ensure that their vehicles are properly maintained and safe for passengers and other road users.

Pua warned that operators found committing serious violations could face the suspension or cancellation of their Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC), depending on the findings of the investigation and applicable regulations.

The agency emphasized that vehicle maintenance and roadworthiness are essential requirements for the continued operation of public utility vehicles.

The LTFRB has yet to announce the findings of its investigation or any penalties against the cooperative.