LTFRB says RTMI already suspended over Zamboanga bus crash

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Sunday responded to calls by the Lawyers for Commuters Safety and Protection (LCSP) for decisive action following the fatal bus crash in Zamboanga del Sur on 8 July.

LTFRB Chairperson Atty. Teofilo Guadiz III told DAILY TRIBUNE that Rural Transit Mindanao Inc. (RTMI), the operator of the bus involved, has already been issued a 30-day preventive suspension and a show cause order.

"In response to the plea of the passengers and their family, please inform them that LTFRB has issued a show-cause and a 30-day preventive suspension to the operator of Rural Transit Mindanao Inc.," Guadiz said.

Guadiz also provided a copy of the order, which was issued by the LTFRB Region 10 office in Cagayan de Oro. The order directs RTMI to explain in writing why its Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) should not be suspended, canceled, or revoked due to the fatal accident.

Initial reports indicated that the bus plunged into a ravine after allegedly suffering a tire blowout while descending a steep section of road. Preliminary findings suggest the driver may have lost control of the vehicle due to the explosion. Two passengers were confirmed dead, while several others sustained serious injuries.

The show cause order also asks RTMI to explain why it should not be penalized for allegedly employing a reckless driver, given that the crash resulted in multiple casualties.

The LTFRB also ordered both the bus operator and the driver involved to appear at a scheduled hearing. Failure to submit an explanation or appear will be considered a waiver, and the case will be resolved based on existing records.