LTO-6 chief urges youth toward nation-building

By Gerome Dalipe

The sacrifices of the country’s heroes should not only be remembered every Independence Day but also reflected in how Filipinos live, serve, and contribute to society.

This was the message of Land Transportation Office Region 6 Director Gaudioso P. Geduspan II during Guimbal’s celebration of the 128th Philippine Independence Day.

“The best way we can honor their legacy is by becoming responsible citizens, ethical public servants, and active partners in nation-building,” Geduspan said before local officials, government employees, and residents gathered for the occasion.

Invited by Guimbal Mayor Janette Garin-Colada as the event’s guest speaker, Geduspan said Independence Day is more than a historical milestone marking the country’s freedom from colonial rule.

He said the occasion is also a powerful reminder of the courage, patriotism, and sacrifices of Filipinos who fought for the nation’s future.

Drawing from his own journey in public service, Geduspan likened the nation’s struggle for independence to the challenges of pursuing meaningful reforms in government.

From serving as legal officer and assistant regional director to becoming regional director in 2024, he said many of the changes implemented at LTO Region 6 required breaking away from old mindsets and long-standing practices.

“Looking back, I can say that many of the reforms we pursued required a certain degree of independence—an independence from outdated practices, from complacency, and from the belief that government agencies cannot change,” he said.

One of the toughest battles, Geduspan said, was changing the public perception of the LTO, which for years had been associated with inefficiency, long lines, fixers, and bureaucratic delays.

“Changing that image was never easy,” he admitted.

“But guided by a vision rooted in integrity, transparency, and accountability, we committed ourselves to transforming the agency into one that genuinely serves the public.”

Since assuming the region’s top post, Geduspan said he has worked with LTO personnel to improve efficiency, strengthen discipline, and rebuild public trust in the agency.

Among the major reforms implemented were intensified law enforcement operations and an aggressive campaign against fixers and other illegal activities.

Last year alone, intelligence-driven operations led to the arrest of 26 individuals involved in illegal fixing schemes.

The agency’s Legal Office also filed 96 cases, with 18 resulting in convictions.

Beyond external enforcement, Geduspan emphasized the importance of accountability within the organization.

He said LTO Region 6 launched a rigorous internal cleansing program to ensure that personnel uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.

Administrative and criminal cases were pursued against employees found liable for serious offenses, including dishonesty and grave misconduct.

By confronting corruption directly and promoting a culture of accountability, the agency has gradually restored credibility in a sector that has long faced public skepticism.

Geduspan said the results are beginning to show.

“One of the most meaningful outcomes of our reforms has been the renewed confidence of the public in government processes,” he said.

The regional office’s efforts have also earned recognition beyond the agency.

The Iloilo-based Institute of Contemporary Economics cited LTO Region 6 as a model of how national policies can be translated into meaningful action through consistent implementation, accountability, and decisive leadership.

As Filipinos commemorate another year of independence, Geduspan challenged both public servants and ordinary citizens to carry forward the values exemplified by the country’s heroes.

For Geduspan, patriotism is not confined to history books or annual celebrations.

He said it is demonstrated every day through honest governance, responsible citizenship, and a shared commitment to building a stronger nation.

“The values of integrity, courage, and service remain as relevant today as they were during the struggle for freedom,” he said.

“Our responsibility is to ensure that the sacrifices of our heroes continue to inspire positive change for generations to come.”

The Philippines marks Independence Day every June 12 to commemorate the country’s declaration of independence from Spanish colonial rule in 1898.