MANILA, Aug. 25 (PNA) — Much like the first hearing on one of its buses being involved in a fatal crash in Novaliches, Quezon City two weeks ago, the owner of Valisno Express bus company was still a no-show on its second hearing on Tuesday.
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) issued a show-cause order last week against the owner, Rosalinda Valisno, to attend the next hearing. However, she was reportedly undergoing treatment in a hospital.
Valisno was reported unable to attend the hearing last week due to stress. The Board said that if Valisno would not attend the next hearing, she could be held in contempt and possibly detained.
The accident involving a Valisno Express bus with plate number TXV 715 crashed against a concrete arch along Quirino Highway at around 7 a.m. on Aug. 12, killing four people and injuring 16 others.
Bus driver George Pacis escaped after the accident but eventually surrendered to the police. He was also tested positive for use of illegal drugs.
This led to the entire Valisno fleet composed of 62 buses being suspended and being required to undergo road-worthiness inspection. The yellow plates of the vehicles were also confiscated by LTFRB inspectors.
All drivers of the bus company will also be required to undergo road safety seminar, drug test, and secure clearances from the police and the National Bureau of Investigation. (PNA)