LTO-3 exec faces show-cause order over highway escort incident

The director of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) Regional Office No. III in Central Luzon has been slapped with a show-cause order (SCO) after a video went viral showing his vehicle being escorted by an LTO patrol car on the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) in Pampanga.

The official in question is retired P/BGen. Ronnie Montejo. The SCO, signed by LTO chief Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao, cites the incident involving a Toyota Zenix registered under the LTO Regional Office No. III, who was allegedly given unauthorized escort privileges.

“This has reference to the incident captured in a video showing one Toyota Zenix, registered under this Office and assigned to the LTO Regional Office No. III, was being escorted by an LTO patrol vehicle on a public highway,” the document reads.

The video circulated widely on social media, sparking public speculation about unauthorized vehicle use by LTO officials. As a result, Montejo has been directed to appear before the LTO chief within five days and submit a "verified comment/explanation" on why he should not be held administratively liable for conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service.

The SCO also warned that failure to submit the required explanation within the specified period may result in the preliminary investigation proceeding without it, effectively waiving his right to respond.

In a separate statement, Lacanilao assured the public that the agency is investigating the matter seriously and is committed to transparency, accountability, and protecting the integrity of the LTO.

"Kailangan nating malaman kung ano ang nangyari at kung bakit nagkaroon ng ganitong sitwasyon (We need to know what exactly happened and why there was that situation),” Lacanilao said.

He emphasized that any violations within the ranks will not be tolerated, and strict administrative action may follow.