The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has suspended the operation of a jeepney unit after a passenger was thrown onto the road along the Anonas-Katipunan route to Cubao on Tuesday evening last week.

“Based on the contents of the said video, the driver allegedly committed reckless and improper driving maneuvers, which resulted in one passenger falling out of the vehicle,” the LTFRB said in its show-cause order (SCO).

The agency said it had identified the operator of the jeepney through information obtained from the viral video and immediately imposed a 30-day preventive suspension on the passenger jeepney bearing plate number APA-4905.

“Public utility vehicles are neither built nor approved to operate for car racing. As PUV drivers, it is always incumbent upon you to prioritize the safety of your passengers at all times,” LTFRB Chairman Vigor Mendoza II said.

In the SCO, the LTFRB cited possible violations, including failure to provide safe, reliable, and convenient public land transportation service and the employment of a reckless driver.

“The hearing is set on July 14, and part of the discussion is on the status of the passenger who fell from the jeepney and whether assistance was extended,” the LTFRB said.

Mendoza stressed that the agency would not tolerate reckless behavior by public utility vehicle drivers and would ensure that the driver involved faces the appropriate sanctions.

The LTFRB also directed the operator to surrender the jeepney’s license plate and require the driver to undergo a mandatory drug test and attend a road safety seminar.

“The vehicle will also be subjected to a roadworthiness inspection,” the agency said.

“The LTFRB warned the operator of the consequences of ignoring the summons, including a P5,000 penalty and the revocation of its franchise,” it added.

Following the incident, the agency reminded PUV operators to ensure the roadworthiness of their units and refrain from employing reckless drivers.