Don Mariano bus franchise cancelled

MANILA, Philippines (UPDATED) – Following the accident involving one of its buses that killed at least 18 people, Don Mariano Bus Transit is losing its franchise, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) announced on Tuesday, January 14.

The bus company’s franchise was cancelled because it failed to follow the terms and conditions of its permit, and neglected to ensure safety in its operations. At least 18 died after a Don Mariano bus plunged off the the southbound lane of the elevated skyway on December 16, 2013. The day before Christmas, the driver of the bus also died. At least 16 were injured. 

The bus involved in the accident, with platenumber UVC-916, was found to be unfit to be on the road. 

“There is no doubt that Don Mariano Transit Bus Corporation has repeatedly failed to comply with the terms and conditions of the CPCs granted to it,” said LTFRB Chairman Winston Ginez.

Ginez announced the cancellation of the bus franchise two days before its 30-day suspension of the Don Mariano fleet ended. The operator had been suspended several times before by the board.

“Kagaya ng nabanggit namin nitong pagpasok ng taong 2014, maraming pagbabago ang magaganap sa LTFRB. Hindi kami mag-aatubuling gumamit ng ‘Kamay na Bakal’ para ipakita na seryoso ang Board sa pagpapatupad na mga batas transportasyon, there is a ‘new Sherriff in town’ that will seriously and strictly implement these rules to ensure the safety and convenience of the riding public,” added Ginez.

(Like we mentioned before, you will see a lot of changes in the LTFRB this year. We will not hesitate to rule with an iron fist to show that the board is serious about implementing transportation rules.) 

Don Mariano has been tagged as the “deadliest” among bus franchises, according to a 2011 list by the LTFRB. – Rappler.com