Dizon orders probe into SCTEX mishap: 'This can't be let pass'

Following a crash that killed at least 12 people, including six minors, at the Tarlac City Toll Plaza Exit of the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon has ordered a full investigation into the bus operator involved, along with a systemic review of road safety regulations across the country.

“This is not something we can just let pass,” Dizon said in Filipino. “Lives were lost — elderly, children. A simple ‘sorry’ cannot bring them back.”

The crash on Thursday afternoon, which involved a passenger bus, an 18-wheeler truck, a van, and a sports utility vehicle, resulted in 12 confirmed deaths and 20 others injured. The van, which bore the brunt of the impact, was completely crushed, with authorities saying victims were “totally wrecked” inside the vehicle.

Dizon said the incident exposed “deep flaws” in the existing road transport system — from franchising and vehicle registration to driver licensing and the enforcement of safety and health standards for public transport personnel.

“This tragic crash only proves there’s something seriously wrong with the current system for ensuring road safety,” he said.

According to Dizon, the driver reportedly fell asleep at the wheel — a scenario that should have been preventable with proper regulation.

“If it’s true the driver fell asleep, then how long had he been driving, and what are the rules regarding how long a driver can drive before taking a rest?” Dizon asked. “There must be rules there, and these rules should be strictly enforced.”

“This is about lives. There can be no room for the status quo anymore,” he said.

He emphasized that the issuance of a franchise or a driver’s license is a privilege that carries responsibility and accountability.

The Transport chief also ordered the immediate suspension of all buses operated by Solid North that ply the route of the vehicle involved in the crash.

“I’ve already ordered the suspension of all buses traveling under Solid North along that route. The suspension takes effect today,” he said. “We will investigate this thoroughly. The company must be held accountable.”