Alarmed by the spate of accidents involving provincial buses in the past few days, Senator Bam Aquino called on concerned government agencies to intensify inspection and monitoring of provincial buses to ensure safety of travelers.

“These accidents are alarming, considering that many of our fellow Filipinos are trooping to the provinces for the last few weeks of summer vacation,” said Aquino, chairman of the Committee on Trade, Commerce and Entrepreneurship.

Aquino said the Land Transportation Office and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTRFB) must conduct regular inspection and monitoring to avoid loss of lives and limbs in the future.

Last Wednesday, three people were killed and 13 others were injured when a Raymond bus en route to Quezon City was rammed by 10-wheeler truck in Tiaong, Quezon. The LTFRB suspended the bus’ franchise to operate for 30 days.

Recently, three people were killed while 14 others were injured when a bus hit a mango tree in Burgos, Ilocos Norte while 21 passengers were injured when a bus fell down a ravine in Aurora.

“Suspension of franchise to operate isn’t enough. Prevention is better than cure and one way of doing it is through regular safety inspection of buses plying the provincial routes,” Aquino stressed.

At the same time, Aquino calls on operators to help the government by ensuring that their buses are in good running condition before allowing them to travel.

“Under the franchise given to them, operators have the responsibility to ensure safe travel for commuters. It is practical for them to ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy before they leave,” Aquino emphasized.

Aside from this, Aquino said operators should check the condition of their drivers if they physically and mentally fit to drive.

“Government agencies and private operators have to work side by side to ensure safe travels for many Filipinos who rely on mass transportation,” Aquino said.

Photo source: Rappler