Mindanao bus operators seek help vs mulcters

Operators of buses plying different routes in Mindanao are seeking the government’s help against rampant extortion by different groups.

They are asking for closer coordination with the police and the military in putting security measures in place against these groups blamed for the spate of bombings of buses.

Bernardo Valdevieso, proprietor of the Weena Bus, identified a certain Ping Tecson as the leader of the so-called Urban Lions Group which sent a letter demanding P4 million from the bus company four months ago.

Tecson’s group, Valdevieso said, threatened to blow up Weena buses if the company would not accede to its demand.

Weena accounted for the most number of buses bombed in the past few years, with losses placed at over P100 million. One of its units was destroyed during the Oct. 10 bombing in Kidapawan City that killed six people.

Weena plies from this city to areas in Central Mindanao like Cotabato City.

Alfredo Ligo Jr., Southern Mindanao branch manager of Bachelor Bus Co., said they also received an extortion letter demanding P300,000 last month.

The bus company has found it hard to ply its usual routes in Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley because of bombing threats from these extortionists.

Meanwhile, owners of buses operating in Luzon have themselves tightened security but urged commuters to be extra vigilant.

Rivo Nisce, general operations manager of the Tarlac-based Philippine Rabbit Bus Lines, said they have been closely working with local and national police authorities to secure their buses and terminals.

This, as a bomb ripped through a Golden Hi-way bus in Balintawak, Quezon City last Friday night, killing two people and wounding 19 others. — With Benjie Villa