LTFRB, LTO suspend PUJ units and driver over viral overloading incident
By Manny Regalado Alcalde
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and the Land Transportation Office (LTO) in Western Visayas have separately ordered preventive suspensions following a viral video showing a dangerously overloaded Public Utility Jeepney (PUJ) in Iloilo.
LTFRB suspended nine PUJ units operated by Pretty Boy Transport Services Corporation (PBTSC), owned by Mr. Danny Layawon. Meanwhile, LTO suspended the driver’s license of Mr. Reniel Latumbo, who was reportedly behind the wheel of the overloaded vehicle plying the Pavia Iloilo Terminal – INCA Lambunao route.
Both agencies issued Show Cause Orders (SCOs) requiring the operator and driver to explain why passengers were allowed to ride on the roof, cling to the sides, and hang onto the rear of the vehicle.
LTFRB Action
Regional Director Richard Z. Osmeña said there is a prima facie case against the operator for violating the Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC), citing overloading of the PUJ with plate number 062008. The incident was captured on social media on August 2, 2026.
Osmeña invoked LTFRB’s regulatory powers under the Public Service Act and the Revised Terms and Conditions of Franchise, which require operators to ensure safe and adequate public transport and prohibit carrying passengers beyond capacity. He ordered a 30‑day preventive suspension of the CPC, effective upon surrender of the plates of the nine units. The operator must also explain why its CPC should not be cancelled or further suspended.
LTO Action
LTO Regional Director Atty. Gaudioso P. Geduspan II cited violations under Joint Administrative Order No. 2014‑01, including allowing passengers on top of the vehicle and permitting riders on the running board or mudguard while in motion. He also pointed to breaches of franchise conditions and reckless driving behavior.
Geduspan reminded the respondent of Republic Act No. 4136, which prohibits passengers from riding on the roof or outside of vehicles. He stressed that drivers have a responsibility to ensure passenger safety and face consequences if they fail.
Coordination for Road Safety
LTFRB Chief Transport Development Officer Atty. Ma. Joscet Buyco‑Abellar said the agency is coordinating with the Iloilo Provincial Planning and Development Office and the Provincial Board’s Committee on Transportation relative to PUJ overloading issues. She noted that overloading is not limited to one terminal but occurs across multiple routes in the province. “The issue of safety is foremost over the issue of earning a better daily income,” Abellar emphasized.
Geduspan stressed that drivers have that responsibility to bring its passengers to their destination safe and that there are corresponding consequences if they fail.
