LTO-6 Moves to Hold Driver Accountable After Fatal Crash

By Gerome Dalipe IV

BACOLOD CITY — The Land Transportation Office Region 6 has taken administrative action against a 20‑year‑old driver involved in a crash that killed three women in Barangay Pungtod, Cabatuan, Iloilo.

The fatal incident occurred around 7:05 a.m. on June 14 when the motorist reportedly fell asleep, veering off the highway and striking the victims.

The women were identified as Alberta P. Colomeda, 72, and Felisidad M. Maderse, 58, both from Cabatuan, and Hayde L. Laso, 59, from Lambunao.

Cabatuan police chief Capt. Aileen Lacrite said Colomeda and Maderse were walking along the roadside while Laso was collecting plastic bottles when the vehicle rammed into them.

The driver, identified only by the alias “Gero,” a resident of Maasin town, was reportedly returning home from Pavia when the crash occurred despite attempting to steer back onto the road.

All three women were rushed to Ramon Tabiana Memorial District Hospital and were pronounced dead on arrival.

LTO‑6 Regional Director Atty. Gaudioso P. Geduspan II approved a show‑cause order for the driver following the recommendation of Teocel M. Umadhay, chief of the LTO Calinog District Office, in line with President Marcos Jr.’s directive to reinforce road safety and promote accountability among motorists.

Umadhay, in coordination with the Maasin Police Station under Police Maj. Cyrone Empedrad, personally served the order at the driver’s Maasin residence yesterday.

The action is based on Rule IV, Section 20(c) of the implementing rules of Republic Act No. 10930, allowing the LTO to revoke a driver’s license without court proceedings in cases involving death or serious injury for up to four years if the driver is found negligent or unfit.

The driver must submit a sworn written explanation and supporting documents within five working days of receipt; failure to do so may result in immediate license revocation.

He may also personally appear at the LTO office to present defenses.

LTO‑6 Assistant Regional Director Jeck D. Conlu said the show‑cause order ensures due process.

“This allows the respondent to explain his side before any administrative penalty is imposed,” Conlu said.