Owner of bus that crashed in Antique suspends operations of 12 other units

Antique bus crash

MANILA, Philippines — The company of the bus that fell into a ravine in Hamtic, Antique has apologized for the accident that killed 17 persons on Tuesday.

Pending investigation, Vallacar Transit, Incorporated (VTI) also said Wednesday it voluntarily suspended the operations of the 12 remaining units under its franchise.

“Vallacar Transit, Inc. would like to express its most heartfelt apologies to those who were involved in the incident,” the company said in a statement.

“We would also like to send our sincerest condolences to the bereaved families,” it went on.

“In coordination with the LTFRB (Land Transportation and Franchising Regulatory Board) Region 6, the management has decided to voluntarily suspend all operations of the 12 remaining units under the franchise involving Case No. 11-VI-021-AK pending investigation, wherein the bus involved in the incident had been a part of,” VTI added.

Ceres bus that figured in the crash is under VTI.

Furthermore, the firm said it will cooperate with any investigation that authorities will conduct regarding the matter.

Meanwhile, VTI will provide financial assistance to the bus passengers and their families.

It also said it will shoulder the medical and burial expenses of the victims of the accident.

VTI noted its personnel are on standby at the hospital for updates and assistance.

“Rest assured that we are doing everything that we can to make sure that this is being handled properly and carefully,” the company said.

“The management guarantees the riding public that we are taking all the appropriate steps to ensure that our buses are road-worthy and well-maintained,” it added.