By CESAR JOLITO III
The Land Transportation Office in the Negros Island Region (LTO-NIR) has issued a show-cause order to the operator of a modernized jeepney that recently went viral for allegedly overloading passengers near Panaad Park and Stadium in Bacolod City’s Barangay Alijis.
The incident, captured on Tuesday, January 27, shows a jeepney on the Alijis-Central Market route carrying more passengers than its authorized capacity.
The video also shows a tense exchange between the vehicle’s conductor and a concerned commuter, sparking public concerns over passenger safety and professionalism.
The jeepney operator MBMJ and UY Transport Services, Inc. is now under administrative investigation for potential violations of Republic Act No. 4136, also known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code.
Alleged infractions include overcapacity, reckless driving, discourteous conduct, and non-compliance with franchise conditions.
LTO-NIR, headed by officer-in-charge Regional Director Jeck Conlu, directed the operator and conductor to appear at the regional office in Bacolod’s Barangay Mansilingan within five days to submit a verified written explanation.
Failure to comply may lead to administrative sanctions, including fines, suspension or other penalties provided under the law.
On Wednesday, January 28, Mayor Greg Gasataya issued a statement condemning the incident, stating that a modernized jeepney operating in an “overcrowded and overloaded condition … poses a significant and unacceptable risk to public safety.”
“The safety of our citizens is non-negotiable. Any public utility vehicle that operates in a manner that endangers lives shall be dealt with to the full extent of the law,” Gasataya said.
He said LTO-NIR confirmed that an investigation has been initiated, and appropriate sanctions will be imposed in accordance with existing laws and regulations.
Reuben Sabig, head of the Bacolod Traffic and Transportation Management Department, has also met with the LTO and will call the operator to account to prevent any recurrence of unsafe and unlawful practices.
“We assure the public that we will continue to enforce traffic and transport regulations strictly to ensure the safety and welfare of all Bacolodnon commuters,” Gasataya said./CJ, WDJ