NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
LTO Chief Issues Show Cause Order Against Gun-Wielding Motorist In Viral Road Rage Incident
Screengrab from Viral Video
The Land Transportation Office (LTO) Chief Assistant Secretary, Atty. Vigor Mendoza, has issued a Show Cause Order (SCO) against the motorist involved in a recent viral road rage incident where a cyclist was confronted with a firearm. The incident, which occurred on August 8 in Quezon City, has sparked widespread outrage and calls for action.
Based on a report submitted to him by LTO-NCR Director Roque Verzosa III, Atty. Mendoza stated that Wilfredo Gonzales has been directed to appear before LTO investigators on the afternoon of Thursday, August 31. Gonzales is also required to provide a sworn statement explaining why he should not be held accountable for the four alleged violations.
The violations include Disregarding Traffic Sign (under Joint Administrative Order 2014-01), Obstruction of Traffic, Reckless Driving, and Improper Person to Operate a Vehicle, as defined by Republic Act 4136.
The LTO's actions have been reported to Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista. Atty. Mendoza emphasized that if Gonzales fails to submit his sworn statement and appear, the LTO will proceed with administrative charges against him based on available documents and data.
"Mr. Gonzales has already received the Show Cause Order, and we expect his cooperation in this matter. The public can rely on the fair and swift action of your LTO regarding this issue," Mendoza stated.
On Monday, August 28, a 90-day preventive suspension was imposed on Gonzales's driver's license, pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation to determine whether his driving privileges should be revoked.
Amidst calls to revoke Gonzales's license immediately, Mendoza explained that due process must still be followed. "We understand the sentiments of our fellow citizens regarding this matter as his actions were clearly captured on video," Mendoza commented. "However, we must adhere to the proper process as required by our legal system. This process is already in motion as far as your LTO is concerned," he added.
Based on a report submitted to him by LTO-NCR Director Roque Verzosa III, Atty. Mendoza stated that Wilfredo Gonzales has been directed to appear before LTO investigators on the afternoon of Thursday, August 31. Gonzales is also required to provide a sworn statement explaining why he should not be held accountable for the four alleged violations.
The violations include Disregarding Traffic Sign (under Joint Administrative Order 2014-01), Obstruction of Traffic, Reckless Driving, and Improper Person to Operate a Vehicle, as defined by Republic Act 4136.
The LTO's actions have been reported to Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista. Atty. Mendoza emphasized that if Gonzales fails to submit his sworn statement and appear, the LTO will proceed with administrative charges against him based on available documents and data.
"Mr. Gonzales has already received the Show Cause Order, and we expect his cooperation in this matter. The public can rely on the fair and swift action of your LTO regarding this issue," Mendoza stated.
On Monday, August 28, a 90-day preventive suspension was imposed on Gonzales's driver's license, pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation to determine whether his driving privileges should be revoked.
Amidst calls to revoke Gonzales's license immediately, Mendoza explained that due process must still be followed. "We understand the sentiments of our fellow citizens regarding this matter as his actions were clearly captured on video," Mendoza commented. "However, we must adhere to the proper process as required by our legal system. This process is already in motion as far as your LTO is concerned," he added.
Aug 30, 2023
