The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has issued a summons to the driver of a bus involved in a crash on the EDSA Busway, citing the use of a mobile phone while operating the vehicle. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, involved a bus that lost control and collided with several vehicles, causing traffic disruptions and minor injuries.
According to LTO Chief Vigor Mendoza II, initial investigations indicate that the driver was distracted by his phone at the time of the accident. "We have strong evidence that the driver was using his cellphone, which compromised his attention on the road," Mendoza said. The LTO is now conducting a thorough probe to determine if the driver violated traffic laws and if the bus company failed to enforce safety protocols.
The driver has been ordered to appear before the LTO to explain his actions and face potential administrative penalties. If found guilty, he could face suspension or revocation of his driver's license, as well as fines. The LTO also warned that bus operators could be held liable for allowing drivers to use phones while on duty.
This incident has reignited calls for stricter enforcement of the ban on using mobile devices while driving, especially for public utility vehicles. The EDSA Busway, a dedicated lane for buses, was implemented to improve travel efficiency but has seen a rise in accidents linked to driver distraction.