LTO-6 suspends license of gun-toting businessman

By Gerome Dalipe IV

The Land Transportation Office–Region 6 (LTO-6) has placed the driver’s license of a Jaro businessman under preventive suspension for one month after he allegedly brandished a firearm and harassed LTO enforcers during checkpoint operations.

Intelligence and Investigation Unit Chief Shiela Mae C. Alulod, assisted by personnel from the Jaro police station, personally served a show cause order at the motorist’s residence.

The order requires a written explanation within five nonextendible calendar days explaining why administrative sanctions should not be imposed on his driver’s license.

Regional Director Atty. Gaudioso P. Geduspan II said the suspension is meant “to protect the agency’s law enforcers performing lawful enforcement activities from harassment and bullying of motorists.”

He added the agency is prepared to pursue appropriate criminal charges against unruly motorists if evidence warrants.

Assistant Regional Director Jeck D. Conlu echoed the firm stance, saying the agency will not tolerate such harassment of law enforcement personnel.

Records from the LTO Regional Law Enforcement Section-6 showed the motorist displayed a firearm and acted in an aggressive, confrontational manner on at least three occasions.

When the motorist was stopped during a checkpoint, the law enforcers said his firearm was visible near the vehicle’s transmission lever while he made confrontational remarks on Burgos Street in La Paz, Iloilo City, in February 2025.

While driving a white Nissan Patrol (plate FAO 6290), the motorist allegedly shouted profanities and was seen with a firearm within reach, disrupting the inspection at Plaza Jaro on Aug. 11, 2025.

In addition, the motorist reportedly approached an LTO enforcer and hurled sarcastic, belittling remarks while a firearm remained visible inside the vehicle near Iloilo Science and Technology University in La Paz on Aug. 14, 2025.

LTO-6 described the repeated conduct as gross misconduct, intimidation, and disrespect toward persons in authority, saying the incidents may violate Republic Act 4136 (the Land Transportation and Traffic Code), relevant provisions of the Revised Penal Code, and other laws related to obstruction of justice.

Effective immediately, the businessman’s driver’s license has been placed under preventive suspension for one month pending administrative investigation.

During this period, he is prohibited from operating any motor vehicle.