LTFRB suspends bus firm over Makati mishap

MANILA, Philippines - The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) suspended yesterday the franchise of the Philippine Corinthian Bus Lines’ whole fleet of 200 buses after one of its units rear-ended a crane in Makati City Monday, injuring at least eight passengers.

LTFRB chairman Alberto Suansing said he has ordered the buses’ license plates confiscated to ensure they cannot travel while the mandatory suspension is in effect.

During a meeting with bus owners and operators, Suansing said any bus firm involved in a road accident would have its whole fleet suspended for 60 days, during which each bus would be tested for roadworthiness and each driver tested for illegal drugs and retrained in road safety.

He said the LTFRB will double the penalty for bus firms involved in bloody road accidents. – Perseus Echeminada