LTO seizes license of driver in toddler steering video

By Gerome Dalipe IV

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) Kalibo District Office has confiscated the driver’s license of a motorist shown in a viral video allowing a toddler to sit on his lap and hold the steering wheel while the vehicle was moving.

LTO Kalibo District Chief Engr. Marlon Velez confirmed the license seizure and said charges for reckless driving have been filed against the driver.

A show-cause order was served Thursday at New Buswang Barangay Hall in Kalibo.

LTO Region 6 Director Atty. Gaudioso P. Geduspan II instructed Intelligence and Investigation Unit Chief Shiela Mae C. Alulod to identify the registered owner of the vehicle and issue a formal show-cause order for violating Section 5 of Republic Act No. 11229 or the Child Safety in Motor Vehicles Act.

The video, dated around July 30, 2025, shows the child seated in the front without a proper Child Restraint System (CRS) while the mother, seated in the passenger seat, filmed the act.

The show-cause notice requires the driver to submit a written explanation within five calendar days from receipt.

Failure to respond will be considered a waiver of the right to be heard and may result in the case being resolved based on available evidence.

“This kind of conduct not only breaks the law but endangers the life of the child and other road users,” Geduspan said.

Assistant Regional Director Jeck D. Conlu called the incident “a blatant disregard for the safety of the most vulnerable passengers.”

He reminded parents and drivers to secure children in rear seats using proper restraint systems or seat belts, in compliance with the law’s height and weight requirements.

Under RA 11229, first-time violators face a fine of PHP 1,000, second offenses carry a PHP 2,000 penalty, and third or subsequent violations result in a PHP 5,000 fine and a one-year license suspension.

The law generally prohibits children aged 12 and below from occupying the front seat unless they are at least 150 centimeters tall and properly secured.

LTO-6 reiterated that child passenger safety is a shared responsibility and encouraged the public to report similar violations through its official social media channels.