THE Lawyers for Commuters Safety and Protection respectfully calls the attention of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board to take immediate and decisive action following the tragic bus accident that occurred on the morning of July 8, 2025, in Zamboanga Del Sur.
In light of the incident involving a bus operated by Rural Transit Mindanao Inc.—which was carrying 40 students from St. Joseph College in Sindangan en route to Pagadian City—LCSP urges the LTFRB to preventively suspend the franchises of RTMI’s other operational units, pending a thorough and impartial investigation.
Reports indicate that the bus fell into a ravine after allegedly suffering a tire blowout while descending a steep section of the road. Preliminary findings suggest that the driver may have lost control of the vehicle due to the tire explosion. As of this writing, two passengers have been confirmed dead, while several others sustained serious injuries.
We acknowledge the LTFRB’s issuance of a show cause order to RTMI and the 90-day suspension of the driver’s license by the Land Transportation Office (LTO). However, we express concern over the apparent lack of a preventive suspension order against the bus operator’s franchise, especially in light of the gravity of the incident.
In previous cases involving public utility vehicles (PUVs)—some even less severe or without resulting in fatalities—the LTFRB had swiftly imposed preventive suspensions on the entire fleet of the operators concerned, in line with its mandate to protect public safety and commuter welfare. We respectfully submit that a similar measure is warranted in this case.
If the reported tire explosion is confirmed as the cause of the accident, it is important to underscore that such an event is not considered a fortuitous event under existing jurisprudence. The Supreme Court has consistently ruled that tire blowouts are:
1. Foreseeable – Tires naturally wear out and require routine inspection.
2. Preventable – Regular maintenance can significantly reduce the risk.
3. Often due to negligence – Including worn-out tires, incorrect tire pressure, or failure to perform safety checks.
In multiple cases, the Court has held common carriers liable for injuries or deaths caused by tire blowouts, emphasizing that these incidents are not beyond human foresight and are generally preventable.
As common carriers, bus companies such as RTMI are held to the highest standard of diligence—that of a very cautious person—in ensuring the safety of their passengers. Given the loss of lives and the number of critically injured victims in this incident, we strongly urge the LTFRB to issue a preventive suspension of RTMI’s franchise while investigations are ongoing.
This is not only a matter of accountability but of public trust and safety. Swift and consistent action in such cases reinforces the commitment of our transport regulators to protect the lives and welfare of Filipino commuters.
Atty. Albert Sadili
Spokesperson – Lawyers for Commuters Safety and Protection
09660859816 – Viber and Mobile number
