LTO issues show cause order vs tricycle driver in viral counterflow video

The Land Transportation Office on Monday issued a show cause order against a tricycle driver seen in a viral video allegedly counterflowing and behaving disrespectfully toward another motorist.

In a statement, the LTO said the dashcam footage showed the tricycle driver driving against traffic, an act it described as dangerous and a serious violation of traffic laws.

“Isang viral video na kuha sa dashcam ng isang motorista ay nagpapakita sa isang tricycle driver na nag-counterflow – isang labag sa mga batas trapiko at lubhang mapanganib na aksyon at malaking sagabal para sa lahat ng gumagamit ng kalsada,” the LTO said.

The agency said both the tricycle owner and the driver have been summoned to a hearing before the LTO’s Intelligence and Investigation Division on 22 January. They were also directed to submit a verified explanation on why they should not face administrative charges and possible revocation of the driver’s license.

In the video, the tricycle driver was seen parking on the opposite lane, posing for the camera, making an obscene gesture, and sarcastically applauding the motorist who recorded the incident.

The LTO said the driver may be charged with reckless driving, obstruction of traffic, driving against traffic, failure to carry a valid driver’s license, and violations of compulsory motor vehicle registration rules.

Pending the investigation, the agency suspended the driver’s license for 90 days and placed the tricycle under alarm status.

The LTO warned that failure to attend the hearing or submit a verified explanation would result in the case being decided based on available evidence.

LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao said counterflowing and disrespectful behavior on the road endanger public safety.

“Ang paggawa ng counterflow at pag-uugali na walang disiplina at respeto sa kalsada ay hindi lamang labag sa batas kundi pati na rin isang pagbabalewala sa kaligtasan ng lahat,” Lacanilao said.

“Hindi tayo papayag na magkaroon ng mga driver na itinuturing na biro ang mga batas trapiko at nang-aasar pa sa ibang mga gumagamit ng kalsada. Ang LTO ay determinadong pigilan ang ganitong uri ng pag-uugali – bawat isa sa ating kalsada ay may karapatan sa ligtas at maayos na daanan,” he added.