Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II, the Chief of the Land Transportation Office (LTO), has directed the agency’s Law Enforcement Service (LES) to investigate a viral video showing a group of bikers obstructing traffic in Rizal, which has angered motorists and netizens.
Asec Mendoza expressed a desire to confirm if any local government unit (LGU) authorized a permit for the event, which resembled a motorcade and caused traffic obstructions impacting thousands of motorists and commuters.
“We already identified the group involved and we want them to explain why they should not be sanctioned for obstructing traffic flow,” said Asec Mendoza.
“Ang nangyari dito ay parang sila-sila lang ang nagplano at nagsagawa ng motorcade, pero damay-damay na pati LTO sa galit ng ating mga kababayan na naperwisyo,” he added.
In the viral video, some riders appeared to assume authority by blocking motorists at the intersection, allowing their fellow riders to take precedence in using the road in Cainta, Rizal.
The CEO of Angkas has reportedly apologized for the incident; however, Asec Mendoza insists that the investigation must continue to ensure such an incident does not recur in the future.
Asec Mendoza aims to pinpoint riders who intentionally obstruct the road, allowing them to justify why they believe they shouldn’t face penalties for behaving as if they are authorized by the government to oversee traffic.
He said what the riders displayed are clear violation of the traffic rules and regulations and also showed abuse and lack of courtesy and discipline.
“Hindi puwede na parang may kanya-kanya tayong gobyerno na gagawin natin kung ano ang gusto natin at the expense of the motorists and the commuters. I need explanation on this and if it needs to impose harsh sanctions, so be it,” said Asec Mendoza.
Source: LTO Facebook Page