The ill-fated public utility vehicle turned turtle, which resulted in the death of two and serious injuries to other passengers. (Photo courtesy of MMDA)
LTO summons PUV owner, driver in fatal QC road accident
THE Transportation Office (LTO) has summoned the registered owner and driver of the passenger jeepney that figured in an accident that left two persons dead Sunday morning in Commonwealth, Quezon City.
According to LTO chief Asst. Secretary Vigor Mendoza II, a show-cause order was already issued against both the concerned individuals to hear their side of the fatal accident.
Following the incident, Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon directed the LTO to intensify the roadworthiness of all motor vehicles, particularly passenger utility vehicles, as one of the preventive measures.
Mendoza also asked the owner to bring the involved unit for inspection and evaluation along with its franchise documents.
QC top cop Brig. Gen. Melecio Buslig Jr. said alias ‘Chito’, the 37-year-old driver of the passenger jeep and a resident of Novaliches, was arrested hours later after the incident. He was charged with reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide, physical imprudence, and damage to properties.
Based on the initial investigation, the incident happened around 6:30 a.m. when the PUV hit the rear left portion of a modern jeepney upon reaching the corner of Commonwealth Avenue and Kasunduan Street. As a result, the passenger jeepney turned turtle, hitting the right-side portion of a sedan.
“We want to have a clear picture of what happened so that appropriate sanctions would be imposed. We will also ask the drivers of the other motor vehicles involved for a statement as well as coordinate with the local police which is conducting a separate probe,” Asec Mendoza said.
The incident resulted in the death of two people and inflicted serious injuries on several other passengers.
In the SCO signed by LTO Intelligence and Investigation Division chief Renante Melitante, the jeepney driver was asked to explain why he should not be penalized for charges of reckless driving and being an improper person to operate a motor vehicle.
Earlier, the LTO bared its Holy Week road safety plans that include surprise and random inspection of passenger buses in bus terminals, as well as the conduct of random drug tests to drivers and conductors if necessary.
