Tado's family to sue Florida bus

MANILA, Philippines - The family and friends of comedian and artist Arvin "Tado" Jimenez are preparing to sue the Florida Trans company, the owner of the bus that fell off a ravine in Mountain Province last week where 17 people were killed.

Leni Velasco, director of the DAKILA artists' group which Jimenez co-founded, said in an interview with radio dzMM on Sunday that they are helping Jimenez's family in studying the filing of the case.

Velasco said that they hope the charges will help prevent similar incidents in the future.

Jimenez was among the fatalities in the bus accident in Bontoc town last Friday.

Jimenez also supported causes advocating for road safety when he was still alive, Velasco said.

"Tado, as we know him, is a true artist and a dedicated activist," the group said in a statement on the actor's death.

"His thought-provoking lines, witty commentary and signature style commanded the attention and rebellion of the public that sought for alternative heroes. His ideas, bordering from the insanely absurd to downright brilliant, spawned outstanding works that continue to influence this generation," it added.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board had said it is poised to suspend the franchise of the bus company due to the fatal crash.