Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — The driver of the crashed Valisno Express bus tested positive for methamphetamine, the case investigator revealed on Thursday (August 13).
The crash on Quirino Highway on Wednesday (August 12) killed four people and injured at least 18 passengers.
Driver George Pacis fled from the scene after the accident, but was arrested at his home in Barangay Panginay in Balagtas, Bulacan on Wednesday afternoon.
Related: Valisno bus driver arrested
He was then brought to the Scene of the Crime Operatives office at the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) Station 10 in Kamuning for medico-legal examination and drug testing.
Passengers stated that Pacis was speeding and crashed at the concrete boundary marker separating Caloocan and Quezon City, Insp. Marlon Meman, commander of the QCPD Traffic Sector 2, who is investigating the case, said.
Meman said Pacis could be held liable for abandoning the victims, which is a violation of the Revised Penal Code.
He would also face charges of reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide, multiple physical injuries, and damage to property.
Valisno Express assured those injured and the families of those who died that it would shoulder hospital bills and burial assistance, respectively. It also promised to provide cash assistance.
On Thursday morning, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board confiscated the yellow plates of Valisno Express’ 62 buses, as part of its 30-day preventive suspension order.
Related: LTFRB slaps suspension order vs. Valisno
Its drivers were also directed to take a road safety seminar, a drug test, and secure police and NBI clearances.
It was also ordered to undergo a roadworthiness inspection by the Land Transportation Office.
CNN Philippines’ Mayumi Lugod contributed to this report.
