LTFRB sets to probe bus collision

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board-6 will conduct an investigation on the collision of the two passenger buses, which claimed the lives of four people and injured 47 others at EB Magalona town in Negros Occidental, Wednesday.

LTFRB-6 Director Romulo Bernardes said a show cause order will be issued to Vallacar Transit Inc., which owned the two buses. “We will direct them to explain the accident. From there, we will determine if we will issue a 30-day preventive suspension,” he said.

Bernardes, who went around the province Wednesday to inspect terminals and units, said LTFRB-6 already have the police report and will start the probe “immediately.” The two buses have complete registration and permits, he said.

The four fatalities were identified as Nemia Pacenio 19, of Silay City; and Rhonie Javarro 23, Nacio Cañete 55, and Ronnel Anciano, 22, all of Victorias City.

Vallacar Transit Inc., in a press statement, said “it is with great sadness that we felt this morning upon hearing the incident involving our two units that claimed the lives of the four victims. It is very emotional time for the families of the victims. Our thoughts and prayers to the families, friends and everyone affected by this incident.”

We will extend immediate assistance to the families of the victims and those who are injured, the statement said, adding that “we are closely coordinating with the E.B. Magalona Police Station for the initial investigation report of the said incident.”