The Land Transportation Office (LTO) announced on Sunday that it has suspended for 90 days the driver’s license of Jose Calisura, who was behind the wheel of JAC Bus (NCG-4202) involved in a deadly crash in San Pablo City, Laguna early Saturday.

The incident resulted in the death of three passengers of a Mitsubishi Montero SUV.

LTO Regional Director Elmer Decena issued a show cause order summoning Calisura and the owners of JAC Bus to explain, under oath, why they should not be held accountable for the fatal crash.

Initial reports showed that Calisura was driving along the Maharlika Highway around 1:45 a.m. on 19 July when the bus collided with the SUV (UIF 323) driven by Nille Penales at the corner of Soledad Road in Barangay San Francisco, San Pablo.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) also issued a separate show cause order directing the owners of JAC Bus to explain why their franchise should not be suspended or revoked for “employing a reckless driver.”

LTFRB hearing officer Angelo Quinto said the bus operators must appear at the hearing on 29 July. Failure to do so would mean waiving their right to respond.

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon, meanwhile, issued a stern warning to all public utility vehicle drivers and operators to prioritize safety or face severe consequences.

“We will not hesitate to revoke your license and franchise if you continue to neglect your responsibilities on the road and endanger the lives of our fellow citizens,” Dizon said.