15 Florida buses suspended following viral racing incident; among them are units plying Baguio – Apayao

Cagayan, Philippines – Among the Florida Bus units that have been suspended after viral racing video include buses plying Baguio – Apayao and vice versa route.

With over 11 million views on Facebook as of June 12, the speeding buses caught racing against one another along the Diadi – Cordon Road on Sunday, June 8, did not escape responsibility after they were issued by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) a 30-day suspension.

Among the 15 Florida buses include units traveling the Baguio – Apayao and Sampaloc – Sta. Ana, Cagayan routes were affected by the suspension.

The GV Florida Transport, INC issued an apology on June 9, saying the racing scene caught and uploaded by a netizen does not align with the company’s values and standards.

“We sincerely apologize about the circulating issue regarding the fast forward footage posted by Carlo Carbonel. The content does not align with our company’s values and standards. We are currently addressing the matter internally and we assure the public that the safety and well-being of our passengers is our top priority. Thank you for your continued support and understanding,” the bus company wrote on Facebook.     

The DOTr, however, did not accept the apology with Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon wanting to seek maximum penalties against the Florida Bus.

“Hindi porket walang nasaktan, walang nadisgrasya ay ganun ganun na lang. I saw the statement and apology of the [GV Florida Transport] and I’m telling them now, apology not accepted… Ginawa lang sports car yung mga bus nila,” Dizon said during a press briefing on Tuesday, June 10.

Apart from the 30-day suspension on 15 buses, all drivers of the said bus company were required to undergo mandatory drug tests.

Dizon, meantime, called on the public to tag the Department of Transportation and the Land Transportation Office on Facebook if they see any recklessness on the road, assuring them of immediate action.