MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) ordered the operator of a passenger jeepney involved in a road crash in Bataan that injured 18 people to explain why its franchise should not be suspended or revoked.
LTFRB Chairman Vigor Mendoza II said the agency issued a show cause order (SCO) to the Dinalupihan-Olongapo Multipurpose Cooperative, the operator of the jeepney involved in the July 14 accident in Barangay Roosevelt, Bataan.
Under the SCO, the cooperative has three days from receipt of the order to explain why administrative sanctions should not be imposed against its franchise. A hearing has been set for July 28.
"The penalty is either suspension or cancellation of the franchise. But we have to hear their side first as a matter of due process that we in the LTFRB fully respect," Mendoza said.
Initial investigation showed that the passenger jeepney struck a bus parked along the roadside before crashing into a post. Eighteen people, including the driver, were injured in the incident.
Police investigators are looking into a possible brake malfunction as the cause of the crash.
Mendoza said the LTFRB will also examine the circumstances surrounding the accident, including the roadworthiness of the vehicle.
The agency said the operator may have violated road safety provisions requiring public utility vehicle operators to ensure the safe transport of passengers.
Mendoza also directed the concerned LTFRB Regional Franchising and Regulatory Office to monitor the condition of the victims and ensure that insurance claims are processed promptly.
