LTFRB suspends franchise of bus that figured in fatal crash in Cebu

CEBU CITY, Philippines—The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board in Region 7 suspended on Monday the operation of 10 buses of the Vallacar Transit after an accident involving one of its buses in Badian town, Cebu, which killed two persons, including a five-year-old girl, and injuries to at least 19 persons.

The fatalities were identified as Marlyn Gerson, 41, and daughter Geralyn, who were seated at the front seat beside the driver, Erwin Gerson, 42. Erwin is the husband of Marlyn and the father of Geralyn.

Erwin reportedly tested positive for liquor at the Badian District Hospital, Badian police investigator, PO2 Bismarck Babiera, said.

The Ceres bus with plate number 722 CEH and body number 8340 left the Ceres bus terminal in Santander, Cebu, and was on its way to Cebu City when the accident happened along the national highway in sitio (subvillage) Bangko-bangko, Barangay (village) Balhaan Badian at 7:18 a.m. Monday. While driving downhill in a blind curve, Erwin accidentally hit a steel post, causing the bus to fall on its right side.

The suspended buses were being deployed to the Cebu City-Guihulngan Negros Oriental route.

LTFRB-7 Director Ahmed Cuizon explained that under the law, bus firms that figured in accidents that led to deaths would prompt the government agency to suspend the bus company’s franchise.

He said the 30-day suspension order took effect Monday against the 10 buses with the same franchise number 080631.

Cuizon said they could not suspend the whole fleet of Ceres buses since it would affect the riding public, especially during the Christmas season.

However, all the buses of Ceres would be subjected to road-worthiness inspection and their drivers would be required to undergo safety seminar, drug test and alcohol test through the LTO, he added.

LTO 7 regional director Arnel Tancinco said his office was waiting for the report of the Badian police about the accident.

Since the accident resulted in deaths, Tancinco said the driver’s license of Erwin Gerson might be suspended for 90 days.

If Erwin is proven to be drunk while driving, the government could revoke his driver’s license, Tancinco added.

However, he said, a revocation of license could still be appealed.

Tancinco also explained that they could not yet apprehend drunk drivers since the implementing rules and regulations for Republic Act 100586, the new law against drunk driving, has not yet been released.