The Land Transportation Office (LTO) on Monday announced the suspension of the driver’s license of a pick-up truck driver involved in a viral road rage incident that allegedly traumatized a toddler.
A video of the incident, captured by a witness, showed the driver of a white Toyota Hilux (NHU-932) berating a street picker pushing a cart that appeared to have blocked his path. During the confrontation, the suspect was seen striking the father in front of his daughter, estimated to be two to three years old, who cried after witnessing the incident.
A couple who owned a store near the scene recorded the incident and intervened, prompting the vehicle owner to flee after realizing he was being filmed.
LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Markus V. Lacanilao condemned the incident, citing the emotional harm caused to the child, and ordered the immediate suspension of the driver’s license.
Lacanilao also directed the LTO Intelligence and Investigation Division (IID) to issue a Show Cause Order (SCO) to the driver and owner of the pick-up truck, requiring them to explain why the agency should not revoke the license for being an improper person to operate a motor vehicle.
Lacanilao said failure to respond to the SCO would be considered a waiver of the right to be heard, which could lead to the automatic revocation of the driver’s license.
“Hindi kukunsintihin ng ahensya ang ganitong asal sa lansangan. Kung totoo man ang mga paratang ayon sa video, dapat managot ang driver. Tinitiyak natin sa publiko na bibigyan natin ng hustisya ang insidenteng ito,” Lacanilao said.