LTO Orders Retraining of Enforcers After Bohol Incident

By Gerome Dalipe IV

Land Transportation Office (LTO) Chief Assistant Secretary Vigor D. Mendoza II has ordered mandatory refresher courses for all LTO enforcers nationwide following a controversial incident in Panglao, Bohol, that sparked public outrage.

“The incident in Bohol calls for a deeper, systematic approach to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Retraining for all LTO enforcers nationwide will be mandatory,” Mendoza announced yesterday.

The controversy arose from a viral video showing five LTO enforcers allegedly manhandling a motorcycle rider during an enforcement operation in Panglao.

Reports indicated that the rider was found in possession of a knife, prompting widespread criticism online.

In response, Mendoza directed the LTO-Law Enforcement Service (LES) at the central office to update protocols on enforcing traffic rules and regulations.

The retraining program will focus on human rights observance and proper enforcement procedures to ensure stricter adherence to road safety laws.

Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon has also ordered the preventive suspension of all LTO personnel involved in the incident.

“This suspension will remain in effect pending the completion of a thorough and impartial investigation,” the DOTr said in a statement.

Mendoza announced the temporary suspension of LTO enforcers’ deployment in Bohol while investigations are ongoing.

He assured the public that corrective measures, including the retraining program, are already being implemented.

The LTO plans to collaborate with the Philippine National Police (PNP) to update enforcement guidelines and assist with the retraining program.

This partnership aims to ensure a more professional and effective approach to law enforcement by LTO personnel.

In LTO Region 6, Regional Director Gaudioso P. Geduspan II and Assistant Regional Director Jeck Conlu echoed Mendoza’s call for reforms.

“Our goal is to ensure that all enforcement activities are conducted with the utmost integrity and respect for human rights,” Geduspan said.