Bus driver’s license suspended following fatal crash

THE Land Transportation Office in Central Visayas (LTO 7) Region 7 has suspended the driver’s license of the bus driver involved in a fatal collision with a tricycle in Barangay Bonawon, Siaton, Negros Oriental.

The collision, which happened around 1 p.m. on Monday, May 19, 2025, in Barangay Bonawon claimed the life of a 69-year-old tricycle driver.

LTO 7 Regional Director Glen G. Galario said Julieto Labadia, the bus driver, received a show cause order, requiring him to explain the incident.

Labadia faces charges for alleged violations of Section 48 (reckless driving) and Section 27 (improper person to operate a motor vehicle) under Republic Act 4136, also known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code.

“Pending the investigation of the road accident in Siaton, we have suspended the license of the bus driver for 90 days and have asked him for a written explanation to be submitted to our office. He has until next week to submit his explanation,” Galario said.

Labadia must surrender his license following the show cause order issued on Wednesday, May 21, 2025.

“We have also issued a show cause order to the owner of the bus, who is invited to appear personally and submit a written explanation or comment before the LTO 7 Operations Division on N. Bacalso Avenue in Cebu City,” Galario added.

Police reports indicate the tricycle was in the right lane when the bus struck it. The tricycle driver was thrown from the vehicle.

The tricycle driver suffered a severe head injury. He died at Siaton District Hospital several hours after the accident. Three tricycle passengers, including a two-year-old child, sustained multiple injuries and are receiving treatment.

Labadia initially claimed he swerved to avoid another vehicle. However, CCTV footage showed no other vehicle approaching.

The LTO 7 is continuing its investigation into the fatal accident. (PR)