LTO revokes bus driver's license after fatal crash

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has permanently revoked the driver's license of Teodoro Merjan, the bus driver involved in a fatal crash on the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), after he refused to undergo a drug test.

Merjan is now perpetually disqualified from driving following the incident, which occurred on May 1.

He confessed to dozing off at the wheel, causing him to lose control and speed towards a toll plaza, resulting in the multi-vehicle collision.

The crash led to 10 fatalities and at least 30 injuries.

Merjan faces multiple criminal charges, including homicide, frustrated murder, and physical injuries.

The bus company, Pangasinan Solid North Transit Incorporated, will face civil cases, with demands for compensation beyond its Third-Party Liability (TPL) insurance.

Separately, the licenses of 98 other bus drivers were also revoked with perpetual disqualification after testing positive for drug use during random testing prior to the Holy Week break.