TWO bus companies involved in a recent bus accident in Sitio Bisibisan, Barangay Supang, Sabangan, Mountain Province may face suspension and even cancellation of franchise.

Engr. Robert Allan Santiago, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Cordillera director, said the suspension would depend on the result of the investigation conducted by the agency.

“I have instructed Atty. Jessie Balagot of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Cordillera to conduct a parallel investigation and issue a show cause order to both bus companies,” Santiago said.

At least 27 individuals cheated death after the two collided on May 24.

In a report to the Police Regional Office-Cordillera (PRO-COR), the crash involved a GL passenger bus driven by Blester Lapa-an Bing-il, 26, and a Rising Sun passenger bus driven by Dave Bangcado, 26.

Investigation said the GL Bus was traversing the national road going to Besao, Mt. Province when the wheels of the bus suddenly slipped and encroached the other lane, hitting the Rising Sun Bus which was traversing the opposite direction.

Both vehicles incurred multiple damages while both drivers and 25 of their passengers sustained injuries.

Both drivers and 18 passengers were rushed by concerned citizens to Luis Hora Memorial Regional Hospital, Bauko, Mt. Province, while seven passengers were brought to Bontoc General Hospital, Bontoc, Mt. Province for medical treatment.

“If we found out that one or both of the bus companies have some problem, they may be suspended or worst franchise cancellation,” Santiago added.

Balagot confirmed the ongoing investigation by the LTFRB.

“We are currently conducting the investigation and once we have determined the cause of the accident, a show cause order will be issued to either bus company which may face preventive suspension. We are also determining the status of their franchises, as we are also considering the service it brings to the riding public if we would suspend their operations,” Balagot said.