LTO-6 summons owner of SUV seen driving recklessly

By Gerome Dalipe IV

The Land Transportation Office Region VI (LTO-6) has issued a show cause order to the registered owner of a damaged Nissan Patrol SUV caught on video driving recklessly through several major roads in Iloilo City in the early hours of July 19, 2025.

Concerned citizens captured video footage showing the SUV, with a visibly damaged front end, speeding along Diversion Road and Jalandoni Street.

The vehicle reportedly struck a gutter near the Philippine-American Cemetery in Barangay Our Lady of Fatima, Jaro, but continued driving until it reached Ledesco Village in Barangay San Pedro.

Parts of the SUV were later found scattered near the Infante Flyover in Barangay Inday, City Proper, raising concerns about the vehicle’s condition and the potential risk to public safety.

While no injuries or property damage were reported, the LTO cited the incident as a serious violation of Section 48 of Republic Act No. 4136, which penalizes reckless driving and mandates reasonable caution on public roads.

LTO-6 Regional Director Atty. Gaudioso P. Geduspan II approved the recommendation of Shiela Mae C. Alulod, head of the LTO-6 Intelligence and Investigation Unit, to summon the vehicle’s registered owner.

The owner has been ordered to submit a written explanation within five calendar days from receipt of the order, explaining why administrative or legal sanctions should not be imposed.

Failure to respond will be considered a waiver of the right to be heard, and the LTO will proceed based on available evidence.

Police Major Eduardo Siacon Jr., chief of Iloilo City Police Station 9, said the SUV was eventually intercepted, and responding officers secured the driver’s information.

No collision with other vehicles or injuries was reported.

LTO-6 emphasized that vehicle roadworthiness is both a legal and civic duty.

“Operating a damaged vehicle on public roads is not only illegal but also endangers lives. Road safety begins with personal responsibility,” said Assistant Regional Director Jeck D. Conlu.