THE Lawyers for Commuters Safety and Protection strongly condemns the recent incident captured on video by a concerned citizen, showing a bus driver en route to Cavite using his cellphone while driving. This reckless and dangerous act puts lives at risk and must not be taken lightly. LCSP also seized this opportunity to urge Congress to revisit and strengthen existing laws, particularly with regard to public utility vehicle drivers, by imposing stricter penalties for distracted driving.
In the viral video, the bus driver can be seen repeatedly glancing at his cellphone while operating the vehicle. The uploader even alleged that the driver appeared to be accessing an online gambling site. Such behavior is not only irresponsible but gravely endangers the lives of passengers, pedestrians, and other road users. LCSP believes that our current legal framework is insufficient to properly address and deter such contemptuous conduct.
Under existing law—Republic Act No. 10913, or the “Anti-Distracted Driving Act”-the use of mobile phones and other electronic devices while driving is penalized as follows: ₱5,000 for the first offense; ₱10,000 for the second; ₱15,000 and a three-month license suspension for the third; and ₱20,000 with license revocation for the fourth offense. While these penalties apply to all drivers, regardless of vehicle type, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board may additionally impose sanctions on PUV operators, including franchise suspension or revocation for repeated violations.
However, LCSP maintains that these penalties are inadequate-especially when applied to PUV drivers who are responsible for the safety of dozens of passengers. The gravity of their role necessitates stricter accountability. Distracted driving by a PUV driver should not be treated with the same leniency as that of a private motorist.
We assert that the law should provide harsher penalties for PUV drivers, including imprisonment of at least six months to one year even for the first offense. This is justified by the sheer number of lives at stake when a PUV driver fails to exercise due diligence and focus. The danger they pose extends far beyond themselves to the riding public and other road users, warranting more serious consequences.
Ultimately, it is Congress that holds the authority to enact these necessary reforms. While the Land Transportation Office and LTFRB can currently impose administrative sanctions, including fines and license or franchise revocations, the imposition of criminal penalties-such as imprisonment-requires legislative action.
Therefore, LCSP earnestly calls upon our legislators to amend Republic Act No. 10913 and introduce stiffer penalties, particularly imprisonment, for PUV drivers who violate this law. The duty to ensure commuter safety rests heavily on the shoulders of PUV drivers. Any action that recklessly endangers public safety, such as driving while distracted by mobile devices, should be met with corresponding gravity under the law.
Atty. Albert N. Sadili
Spokesperson – LCSP
09660859816 – Viber and mobile number
