Authorities Act on Illegal Motorcycle Racing
The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has taken decisive action following reports of illegal motorcycle racing along a bypass road in San Rafael, Bulacan. The LTO summoned the owners of 19 motorcycles involved in the unlawful event that endangered public safety.
According to officials, the illegal motorcycle racing involved riders who not only violated traffic regulations but also performed risky exhibitions without helmets. This reckless behavior occurred on a public road frequently used by four-wheel vehicles, increasing the danger to all road users.
Violation Details and Police Operation
Community members noted that many of the riders lacked valid driver’s licenses and operated motorcycles without visible license plates. These infractions prompted the Philippine National Police–Highway Patrol Group to conduct a targeted operation on August 17 along the Mabalas-Balas–Galas-Maasim Bypass Road in San Rafael.
The police operation led to the arrest of 12 individuals. Additionally, 12 minors, ranging from 7 to 16 years old, were taken into custody as they were reportedly involved in or present during the illegal activities.
LTO’s Firm Stand Against Dangerous Conduct
Assistant Secretary Vigor Mendoza II, LTO chief, expressed concern over the involvement of children in these hazardous motorcycle exhibitions. “Aside from racing in a public road, where four-wheel vehicles would pass through, we also learned that these individuals were holding motorcycle exhibitions together with children,” he said.
He further emphasized that the LTO will not tolerate such violations, especially since a recent accident in the area involved a child who was hurt while fleeing from authorities. The incident underscores the urgent need to curb illegal racing and unsafe practices on public roads.
Incident Highlights and Legal Actions
Local leaders reported that during the police pursuit, one fleeing rider struck a minor, adding to the gravity of the situation. In response, the LTO’s Intelligence and Investigation Division has issued show cause orders to the registered owners of the impounded motorcycles.
These owners are required to appear at the LTO Central Office in Quezon City on August 27 to address charges including Duty to Have License, Reckless Driving, Failure to Wear Protective Helmet, Driving Without a License Plate, and Operating a Vehicle Improperly.
For more news and updates on illegal motorcycle racing, visit Filipinokami.com.
