Motorcycle rider probed for blocking Bacolod firetruck

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The Land Transportation Office–Negros Island Region (LTO-NIR) is investigating a motorcycle rider, a call center agent, who went viral for allegedly blocking the path of a responding firetruck in this city.

A video circulating on social media showed the motorcycle continuing to move forward despite the firetruck’s activated siren and warning lights, with the rider making no effort to yield, according to the LTO-NIR.

The incident occurred on Jan. 15 while the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)–Bacolod was responding to a fire in Barangay Alijis.

Authorities said the act potentially delayed the emergency response and endangered public safety.

“Every second counts during fire and medical emergencies. Delays can mean the difference between life and death, and between minor damage and total loss of property,” said Fire Inspector Jemarie Tapiru, deputy city fire marshal, in a statement.

The BFP urged motorists to stay alert, avoid occupying the fast lane unnecessarily, and give way immediately to emergency vehicles to ensure quicker response and safer operations.

Through verification using the LTO Information Technology System, authorities were able to identify the motorcycle’s registered owner.

Initial findings by the LTO-NIR showed that the driver, though of legal age, does not possess a valid driver’s license, which may aggravate the case.

Possible violations include reckless driving, obstruction, driving without a license, and delinquent vehicle registration.

If proven to have knowingly allowed an unlicensed individual to operate the motorcycle, the registered owner may also face liability.

The LTO-NIR reaffirmed its commitment to road safety, noting that failure to yield to emergency vehicles may be considered reckless driving under Section 48 of Republic Act No. 4136, or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code.

The agency also cited Section 29 of the same law, which holds vehicle owners liable if they permit unauthorized, unlicensed, or incompetent individuals to operate their vehicles.

Both the driver and the registered owner were ordered to appear before the LTO-NIR office within five days of receiving the notice and to submit a verified written explanation.

Failure to comply will be deemed a waiver of their right to be heard, and the case will be resolved based on the evidence available.