By CESAR JOLITO III

Transport authorities have ordered a modernized jeepney operator and driver to explain after a viral video showed a unit allegedly failing to yield to an ambulance in Bacolod City.

The Land Transportation Office in the Negros Island Region (LTO-NIR) confirmed that it has served a show-cause order (SCO) against the operator of the modernized jeepney involved in the incident after the video circulated widely on social media.

It raised concerns over road safety and emergency response delays.

Under the supervision of LTO-NIR officer-in-charge Regional Director Jeck Conlu, the SCO was served on March 9.

Authorities said the driver involved has also been identified and will be issued a separate SCO.

Meanwhile, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) also initiated administrative proceedings against the operator.

In an SCO issued by the LTFRB Regulatory Office, the agency directed Choret Corporation to explain why its certificate of public convenience (CPC) should not be suspended or canceled over the incident.

The order, signed by Regional Director Gerry Llena, cited a prima facie case for possible violation of the conditions of the CPC, particularly the provision prohibiting operators from employing “reckless, insolent, discourteous, or arrogant drivers” under Joint Administrative Order 2014-001.

The LTFRB ordered the operator to submit a written explanation within five days upon receipt of the order and to appear at a hearing scheduled on Monday, March 16 at 1:30 p.m. at the LTFRB Regional Office in Western Visayas in Iloilo City.

Authorities said the viral footage appeared to show the jeepney obstructing the path of an approaching ambulance, prompting public concern about the possible impact on emergency medical response./CJ, WDJ