The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has taken action against a government agency following the circulation of a vehicle allegedly displaying a counterfeit red plate. The agency is required to explain its involvement with the vehicle, a Ford Explorer.
The LTO issued a show-cause order demanding the agency's authorized representative and the vehicle's driver to appear at the LTO Central Office. They must clarify why they should not be penalized for using an unauthorized improvised plate and for failing to register the vehicle.
Additionally, the driver faces charges for reckless driving and operating a vehicle improperly.
No one is exempt from the enforcement of traffic laws and LTO regulations. Anyone proven to have violated them will face appropriate penalties.
Markus Lacanilao, LTO Chief
Lacanilao emphasized that government agencies should model compliance with laws. He warned that failing to attend the scheduled hearing would imply a waiver of their right to defend themselves.
The vehicle in question has been marked under alarm status, and the driver’s license has been suspended for 90 days, requiring immediate surrender.
Lacanilao urged all vehicle owners and operators to abide by existing laws to maintain safety and order on the roads.