Solid North Bus Suspended After Fatal SCTEX Crash

Popular bus line halted after tragic expressway accident on 1 May 2025

If you're planning to travel to Baguio, Pangasinan, La Union, or other parts of North and Central Luzon, this could affect your trip.

On the morning of Thursday, 1 May 2025, a Solid North Transit Inc. bus was involved in a fatal multi-vehicle crash at the SCTEX (Subic–Clark–Tarlac Expressway), specifically at the Tarlac City Toll Plaza. The collision led to at least 10 deaths and injured over 30 passengers. In response, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has ordered the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to suspend several units from the bus company.

Also read: 10 WORST Habits of Bus Commuters to Avoid Now That Provincial Buses Are Back

Travel disruption for regular provincial routes

Image credit: GMA NEWS | FB page

Solid North is a go-to option for many Filipinos heading to the northern provinces. With the LTFRB issuing a 30-day preventive suspension on 15 of its units, travellers bound for northern Luzon should expect limited availability and potential delays. This could affect weekend trips, family holidays, and long weekend plans—especially with the peak travel season approaching.

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon directed the LTFRB to act immediately following the incident. Along with the suspension, the bus company is now required to:

• Submit the suspended buses for a full roadworthiness inspection

• Conduct mandatory drug testing for all drivers

• Have employees attend road safety seminars

• Surrender the number plates of the affected units

Dashcam footage of the crash has gone viral, showing the bus speeding and crashing into multiple vehicles at the toll plaza. The scene has sparked public outrage and renewed discussions about passenger safety and driver accountability in the country.

Also read: The Victory Liner Vintage Bus Is Touring Luzon — Here’s When & Where It Will Be

Check before you travel

If you’ve already booked tickets with Solid North, it’s best to contact the company directly for updates, refunds, or rescheduling. For those still planning their trips, alternative operators like Victory Liner, Partas, and Genesis might be worth checking out—but expect bus terminals to be more crowded than usual.

This tragic incident is a serious reminder of how vital transport safety is, especially as more Filipinos head out of the city for holidays and quick getaways. Authorities are now under pressure to tighten safety standards and ensure operators comply with regulations meant to protect passengers.

Stay informed and double-check your travel plans before heading to the terminal. And as always—travel safe.