MMDA suspends 2 towing firms

MANILA, Philippines - The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) suspended yesterday the operations of two accredited tow truck companies following complaints of recklessness resulting in damage to property and abuse of authority.

BNW Towing Services was suspended for three months after Jayross Lucky Seven Tours Bus Co. Inc. filed a complaint for reckless imprudence.

MMDA chairman Francis Tolentino said a Jayross Lucky Seven tour bus (UVF-927) stalled along Kamias Road in Quezon City due to engine failure. The bus was immediately clamped and towed away by a truck of the BNW Towing Services.

While being towed, the MMDA said the tow truck driver miscalculated the clearance of the Kamias flyover, causing the roof of the bus to hit the underside of the interchange. The insurance company of Jayross refused to pay for the damage.

After a series of hearings, MMDA ruled in favor of the complainant, resulting in the suspension.

“We will never tolerate any acts of abuse from all the accredited tow truck companies. We are constantly monitoring their operations for the protection of the public,” Tolentino said.

Another firm, Haplos Towing Services, was also suspended for one month for abuse of authority over the complaint lodged with the MMDA by a truck operator from Valenzuela City.

Complainant Marissa Paz alleged that her Toyota Dyna truck (WPH-307) was forcibly towed by Haplos Towing Services using a seatbelt instead of a tow bar after it stalled.

Tolentino said Haplos Towing Services had failed to follow the proper towing procedures stated under the MMDA guidelines on towing.

“All the tow trucks of these companies are restricted within the confines of their garage facilities during the period covered by the suspension orders,” Tolentino said.