The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has summoned the driver of a vehicle involved in an accident that injured a traffic enforcer in Sta. Maria, Bulacan. The incident, which occurred on January 14, 2025, was captured on video and quickly went viral on social media, sparking public concern over road safety.
The Incident in Detail
According to LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II, both the driver and the registered owner of the Toyota Avanza with plate number NIO-3457 have been issued a Show Cause Order (SCO). The order requires them to explain in writing why they should not be held accountable for the incident, which left traffic enforcer Salvador Marquez Dela Cruz Jr. injured.
“Based on the initial investigation, the driver of the vehicle fell asleep while driving, leading to this unfortunate incident,” Mendoza revealed. “We issued the SCO as part of due process, aiming to gather their side before making a decision.”
The accident took place at around 10:30 a.m. in Paso, Barangay Bagbaguin, Santa Maria. The vehicle struck Dela Cruz while he was directing traffic on the Santa Maria Bridge en route to Barangay Bagbaguin.
Penalties and Accountability
The SCO, signed by LTO Intelligence and Investigation Division Chief Renante Militante, outlines potential penalties for the driver, including suspension or revocation of their driver’s license for reckless driving.
Meanwhile, the vehicle’s registered owner must also provide an explanation regarding possible violations of traffic rules and regulations. The SCO further stated that the vehicle, bearing plate number NIO-3457, will be temporarily placed under alarm. This measure prevents any transactions involving the vehicle until the investigation concludes.
“Failure to appear and submit a written explanation will be interpreted as a waiver of the right to be heard,” the SCO warned. “The case will then be decided based on the evidence at hand.”
A Reminder to Drivers
Asec Mendoza emphasized the importance of vigilance and responsibility among drivers, especially in light of the LTO’s nationwide “Stop Road Accident!” campaign. “This incident underscores the need for drivers to take all necessary precautions to protect themselves and others on the road,” he stated.
The “Stop Road Accident!” campaign, launched in December 2024, aims to reduce road accidents by 35% by 2028 through information dissemination and strict enforcement of traffic laws in collaboration with local government units and other agencies.
The campaign also involves utilizing social media to reach a wider audience and coordinating with law enforcement agencies to strengthen enforcement efforts.
In addition, the LTO has intensified its seatbelt use campaign, apprehending over 134,000 motorists for violations in 2024, as part of the broader “Stop Road Crash” initiative to enhance road safety nationwide.
Public Reaction and Safety Concerns
The viral video of the incident has elicited widespread reactions on social media, with many netizens calling for stricter penalties for negligent drivers. Others highlighted the challenges faced by traffic enforcers in maintaining order on busy roads.
“Traffic enforcers risk their lives daily to keep our roads safe,” commented one user. “Drivers must be held accountable for endangering others.”
LTO’s Commitment to Road Safety
The LTO’s swift action in this case reflects its commitment to ensuring accountability and promoting road safety. Mendoza reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to addressing incidents of reckless driving and fostering a culture of responsibility among road users.
“We want to assure the public that we are taking this matter seriously,” Mendoza said. “Our goal is to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.”
The agency continues to work closely with local government units, law enforcement, and community stakeholders to strengthen road safety measures nationwide.
What’s Next?
Both the driver and the vehicle owner are expected to submit their written explanations by the designated deadline. The LTO will then evaluate their responses alongside the evidence gathered from the investigation. Based on these findings, appropriate penalties will be determined.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of negligence on the road and highlights the LTO’s proactive stance in upholding traffic laws. As the investigation unfolds, the agency remains steadfast in its mission to create safer roads for all.
Video: Traffic enforcer, sugatan matapos mabangga ng sasakyang puyat daw ang driver | Balitanghali
A traffic enforcer in Bulacan, Salvador Marquez Dela Cruz Jr., was severely injured after being hit by a speeding Toyota Avanza driven by Philip Cris Antonie Baynito, who reportedly fell asleep at the wheel due to fatigue. The incident, captured on CCTV, occurred on January 14, 2025, in Barangay Bagbaguin, Santa Maria. Baynito was arrested on-site and faces charges of reckless imprudence resulting in serious physical injury. The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has summoned both Baynito and the vehicle owner, issuing a Show Cause Order to address the case and temporarily placing the vehicle under alarm during the investigation. This highlights the dangers of fatigued driving, with the LTO urging drivers to stay vigilant as part of their “Stop Road Crash” campaign.