LTO clears jeepney driver in fatal Oton crash

By Gerome Dalipe

The Land Transportation Office–Western Visayas (LTO-6) has absolved a public utility driver in a fatal head-on collision, ruling that the tragedy was caused by a sudden, unavoidable lane change by the other vehicle.

Jeto E. Sicabalo, 40, the driver of a modernized jeepney involved in the July 6 crash in Oton, Iloilo, was cleared of all administrative liability by LTO-6 Regional Director Atty. Gaudioso P. Geduspan II.

The crash tragically claimed the life of the 21-year-old sedan driver, identified as “Mando,” after his Mitsubishi Lancer slammed into the oncoming jeepney.

The LTO-6 investigation, spearheaded by the Intelligence and Investigation Unit, ruled in Sicabalo’s favor based on evidence reviewed by the agency.

“There is no evidence that Mr. Sicabalo committed any traffic violation or failed to observe standard operating procedures,” read Director Geduspan’s resolution.

The key finding, corroborated by initial police reports and passenger accounts, showed that the Mitsubishi Lancer suddenly veered into Sicabalo’s lane, which the LTO-6 concluded was an event “beyond his control.”

Sicabalo submitted dashcam footage, written explanations, and personally appeared before LTO-6, with the evidence confirming he was driving cautiously at reduced speed due to rain and was maintaining proper lane discipline.

While the sedan driver was killed and at least 10 jeepney passengers sustained minor injuries, the LTO-6 found that Sicabalo’s conduct was exemplary under the circumstances.

“His conduct following the incident demonstrated full compliance with administrative protocols. He assisted injured passengers, coordinated with authorities, and responded promptly to the Show Cause Order,” Geduspan noted.

The LTO-6 determined the incident did not meet the threshold for reckless driving under Section 48 of Republic Act 4136.

His license remains valid, underscoring how professional conduct and comprehensive evidence, particularly dashcam footage, can be vital to due process.