The Land Transportation Office on Wednesday issued a show cause order against the registered owner and driver of a Ford Everest involved in a viral video showing alleged reckless driving along the northbound NAIA Expressway (NAIAX).
The LTO said the video showed the vehicle deviating from a toll gate before abruptly crossing into what appeared to be the wrong lane, nearly colliding with another vehicle.
The agency said both the registered owner and the driver may face several violations if proven, including reckless driving, improper signaling when starting, stopping or turning, disregarding traffic signs, and allowing an improper person to operate a motor vehicle.
As part of the investigation, the respondents were directed to appear before the LTO Intelligence and Investigation Division along East Avenue in Quezon City on 28 January at 11 a.m. They were also ordered to submit a verified or sworn explanation and other supporting documents explaining why administrative charges and possible license suspension should not be imposed.
The driver’s license has been suspended for 90 days while the investigation is ongoing and must be surrendered on the day of the hearing. Meanwhile, the vehicle involved has been placed under alarm status and is not allowed to be driven without LTO clearance.
“Kung hindi sila makakapunta at hindi magsumite ng hiling na paliwanag, ituturing itong pagbabalewala sa kanilang karapatan na marinig, at papasiyahan ang kaso batay sa mga ebidensyang nasa kamay ng LTO,” the agency said.
LTO Assistant Secretary Markus Lacalinao stressed that road safety remains the agency’s top priority and urged motorists to strictly follow traffic rules to prevent accidents.
“Hindi tayo papayag na hayaang magdulot ng panganib ang mga walang ingat na pagmamaneho sa mga mamamayang Pilipino. Ang paglabas ng Show Cause Order na ito ay patunay na seryoso ang LTO sa pagpapatupad ng mga batas trapiko,” Lacalinao said.
“Hinihikayat din natin ang lahat ng mga motorista na sundin ang mga tuntunin sa kalsada para maiwasan ang mga aksidente at mapanatili ang maayos na daloy ng trapiko,” he added.