The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has launched an investigation into a fatal crash that killed three and injured several others along Maharlika Highway in Barangay Balangibang, Polangui, Albay last Tuesday. 

Initial reports from RFRO-5 and the local police state that a Hino truck (CBS-6417), while overtaking a van, collided head-on with a public utility bus (EVP-942) bound for Metro Manila. Both drivers died on the spot; one injured bus passenger later died in the hospital.

The bus, registered to Felixberta B. Bobis of Malilipot, Albay, is authorized under Case No. 2007-0719.

LTFRB vowed to hold accountable any parties found violating road safety rules or franchise conditions. 

“Passenger safety is our priority,” the agency said, reaffirming its commitment to a safe and reliable transport system under the Bagong Pilipinas vision.

LTFRB spokesman Atty. Ariel Inton, meanwhile, said the driver of the bus is covered by the personal passenger accident insurance and under its policy is entitled to P400,000, while the truck being a private owned is not for hire “and therefore should be shouldered by the third liability insurance coverage” to indemnify the truck driver’s family.