LTFRB hints at tougher sanctions on bus firm in Batangas tragedy

After suspending a bus firm's franchise for 30 days over a road accident that killed at least seven people in Batangas Sunday, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board hinted at heavier penalties against the company. LTFRB Chairman Nelson Laluces on Tuesday said Gasat Bus Express’ franchise may be suspended longer than 30 days or canceled outright, depending on the findings of the ongoing investigation on the case. "Longer suspension or outright cancellation of the firms’ franchise is possible," Laluces said in an interview on dzXL radio. Seven people were killed when the Gasat bus collided head-on with a passenger jeep on the South Luzon Arterial Road in Batangas Sunday afternoon. The bus had just overtaken another vehicle when the collision happened. On the other hand, Laluces said the bus driver will be sent for retraining. "The present 30-day suspension of the franchise is just preventive. After the investigation, depending on the findings, the suspension may be longer," he said. Meanwhile, Laluces said the LTFRB is coordinating with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to conduct stricter qualification tests for drivers. He hinted the enhanced courses may include requiring the driver to check if the buses are roadworthy before taking the wheel. "The system must have the driver check the maintenance work on the bus before taking the wheel," he said in Filipino. — LBG/KBK, GMANews.TV