Manila, Philippines – The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has swiftly suspended the operations of the bus company involved in a devastating accident on the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) in Valenzuela City on Monday night. This decision, announced by DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon in a press briefing on Tuesday, comes as authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and prioritize the safety of commuters.

The accident, which occurred late Monday evening, resulted in significant damage and injuries. While details are still emerging, initial reports suggest a combination of factors may have contributed to the collision. The DOTr’s immediate action underscores their commitment to ensuring public safety and holding accountable those responsible for breaches in safety protocols.

“We have approved the suspension of the bus company pending a thorough investigation,” Secretary Dizon stated. “Our priority is to determine the cause of the accident and to ensure that similar incidents are prevented in the future. We will not tolerate any compromise on safety.”

The suspension order will remain in effect until the investigation is completed and the bus company can demonstrate a commitment to adhering to all safety regulations. The DOTr will be working closely with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and other relevant agencies to conduct a comprehensive review of the company’s operations, maintenance records, and driver training programs.

This incident has reignited concerns about road safety on major expressways like the NLEX. The DOTr is expected to announce further measures to enhance safety protocols, including stricter enforcement of speed limits, regular vehicle inspections, and driver competency assessments. They are also considering implementing advanced safety technologies, such as speed warning systems and collision avoidance systems, to mitigate the risk of future accidents.

Families of the victims are being provided with assistance and support. The DOTr expressed its condolences to those affected by the tragedy and vowed to provide updates as the investigation progresses. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and adherence to safety regulations on our roads. The public is urged to remain aware of their surroundings and to report any unsafe driving behavior they witness.

The investigation is ongoing, and the DOTr is expected to release a detailed report outlining the findings and recommendations for preventing similar accidents in the future. The public is encouraged to cooperate with authorities and provide any information that may assist in the investigation.