Modernized jeepney probed for blocking ambulance in Bacolod

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The Land Transportation Office-Negros Island Region is probing a viral video showing a modernized jeepney allegedly failing to yield to an approaching ambulance in the city.

The agency served a show cause order to the modernized jeepney operator on Monday, while a separate show cause order will also be issued to the driver after his identity was confirmed during the service of the order to the operator.

The video circulating online has raised public concern, as the jeepney was seen allegedly obstructing the path of an ambulance, potentially delaying emergency response and endangering public safety, according to the LTO-NIR.

The uploader of the video was heard saying the patient in the ambulance reportedly fell from the stretcher or bed inside the vehicle and felt nervous about the commotion.

Under Republic Act No. 4136, or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, all motorists are required to yield the right of way to authorized emergency vehicles, including ambulances, fire trucks, and police vehicles, when such vehicles are responding to emergencies with audible sirens or visible warning lights.

Police Maj. Elmer Bonilla, head of the Traffic Enforcement Unit, said the incident was not officially lodged with the police, adding that both parties reached a settlement.

Last January, the LTO-NIR also probed a call center agent who went viral on social media for continuously driving his motorcycle and blocking the right of way of a responding fire truck in the city.

The LTO-NIR reiterated its reminders to all motorists to always give way to emergency vehicles, emphasizing that immediate and proper road courtesy is essential to ensure timely medical response and public safety.