LTO-6 Condemns Fatal Oton Crash, to Summon and Probe Pickup Driver

By Gerome Dalipe IV

The Land Transportation Office Region 6 (LTO-6) has condemned a fatal road crash that killed a 28-year-old seaman who was hit by a pickup truck while cycling early Thursday, July 10, in Barangay Pakiad, Oton, Iloilo.

Initial findings from the Philippine National Police revealed that the pickup driver was traveling at an unsafe speed and failed to maintain the legally required 1.5-meter clearance while overtaking the cyclist.

The impact caused a fatal head injury, and the victim, who had just returned home from sea duty to be with his wife and child, was declared dead shortly after.

In response, LTO-6 Regional Director Atty. Gaudioso P. Geduspan II said the agency has issued a show cause order to the pickup driver, requiring him to explain in writing why his driver’s license should not be suspended or revoked.

LTO-6 is also working with the Iloilo Provincial Police Office to gather witness accounts, collect surveillance footage and conduct a full investigation into the incident.

“We are profoundly saddened by this needless loss of life,” Geduspan said.

“Under the guidance of DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon and LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor Mendoza II, we have intensified our road safety campaigns to prevent such tragedies.”

He said the incident underscores the urgent need for motorists to strictly observe speed limits and exercise greater care toward cyclists and other vulnerable road users.

LTO-6 Assistant Regional Director Jeck D. Conlu, a known road safety advocate and cyclist, also condemned the incident.

“As someone who understands the risks faced by cyclists, I am dismayed by this reckless behavior,” Conlu said.

“We will ensure that those responsible are held accountable.”

In light of the crash, LTO-6 renewed its call for motorists to observe speed limits and safe overtaking practices, especially when sharing roads with cyclists.

The agency reminded the public that a minimum clearance of 1.5 meters is required by law when overtaking cyclists to prevent collisions.

“Maintaining a safe distance is not optional,” LTO-6 said in a statement.

“Failure to do so can have tragic consequences.”

LTO-6 also urged motorists to avoid aggressive driving behaviors, including sudden lane changes, speeding and tailgating.

It stressed the need for heightened awareness of cyclists, pedestrians and other non-motorized road users, particularly along provincial and urban routes.

The case remains under investigation.

LTO-6 said appropriate administrative actions, including the possible suspension of the driver’s license, will be pursued based on the outcome of the probe.