THE Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board-Davao Region office (LTFRB-11) has ordered a one-month suspension on the operation of 34 Metro Shuttle buses owned by Davao Metro Shuttle Corp. after a deadly collision with a bus of another company last Monday. “During the preliminary investigation it was found out that the front tire of Metro Shuttle bus exploded causing it to encroach on the lane of the Bachelor Bus,” LTFRB-11 Director Cattleya B. Acaylar said. The accident, where seven people were killed and 30 others wounded, happened in Nabunturan, Compostela Valley, which is outside Metro Shuttle’s franchise area covering only the cities of Davao and Tagum. Ms. Acaylar said the management of Metro Shuttle will be required to conduct a road safety training for its drivers and conductors as a condition to the lifting of the suspension. The LTFRB also directed the company to “show cause in writing within 72 hours from receipt of the order as to why its Certificate of Public Convenience should not be suspended, cancelled and/or revoked for violation of the terms and conditions of its franchise.” The Metro Shuttle buses will also be subject to inspection by the Land Trasportation Office. In a statement, Davao Metro Shuttle said it has “rules and strict measures being instilled in our drivers and conductors especially with regards to safety.” The company also said it will provide support to the casualties of the accident. — Carmencita A. Carillo

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