By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz

BUS CRASH. A passenger bus is on its side in the aftermath of a road crash along the national highway in Gumaca, Quezon, on Friday (Feb. 20, 2026). Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Chair Vigor Mendoza II on Monday (Feb. 23) summoned the operator of the bus as part of their investigation into the incident. (Photo courtesy of Gumaca Municipal Police)

MANILA – The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Monday summoned the operator of a passenger bus that figured in a road crash in Gumaca, Quezon and injured at least 25 passengers.

In a statement, LTFRB Chair Vigor Mendoza II said the show cause order (SCO) issued to the bus operator is part of the investigation to find out what went wrong in response to reports that the driver lost control of the bus.

“We are investigating to establish the reason behind this unfortunate incident. Ito ba ay (Is this a) road worthiness issue, driver-related issue, or other factors?,” Mendoza said.

The bus operator was ordered to submit a written explanation as to why their franchise should not be suspended or revoked over the incident.

They were also ordered to appear before the LTFRB in a hearing on March 13, 2026.

He assured a fair hearing on the incident and promised that the LTFRB will monitor the progress of the payment of insurance for all injured passengers.

On Friday, the bus in question was traveling along a national highway when it appeared to have lost control and rammed another vehicle before falling over on its side.

Those injured in the incident were taken to the hospital. (PNA)