The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is gearing up for a crucial meeting with bus companies this Friday. The aim? To tackle serious issues fueling accidents on our roads.
DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon has called in 27 bus companies for a 2 p.m. gathering. The focus will be on recent crashes and the alarming trend of drivers testing positive for drugs.
“I will get to the bottom of this. I will confront them head-on. What is going on? Why are accidents happening non-stop? Why are so many drivers testing positive for drugs?” Dizon declared.
He warned sternly, “I will be straightforward with these bus companies. If they don’t straighten up, they will face severe consequences—more than just suspension.”
This fiery stance comes after a tragic crash Thursday at the Tarlac City Toll Plaza on SCTEX. Ten people, including four children, lost their lives. Over 37 were injured.
Authorities revealed the chain reaction: A Solid North bus rammed into a van at the toll gate’s payment queue. The van then collided with a compact SUV, triggering a domino effect involving another SUV and a tractor head.
The bus driver was arrested and admitted to dozing off while driving.
In response, DOTr has ordered the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board to suspend Solid North Transit’s operations immediately.
The message is loud and clear: Safety and accountability cannot be compromised on our highways. Expect tough actions ahead.
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