LTO Cracks Down on Counterflowing Drivers in Malolos City
The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has taken firm action against erring drivers this Holy Week rush, suspending the license of a Malolos City driver caught counterflowing on a public road. This latest move highlights the LTO’s intensified crackdown on traffic violations, especially counterflowing, to ensure road safety amid heavy travel periods.
Alan Daganan Tayag, the registered owner of a Nissan Navara, was seen in a viral video driving against traffic. As a result, the LTO issued a 90-day preventive suspension of his driver’s license while the investigation proceeds. Officials reported that this suspension is part of the government’s broader effort to curb reckless driving during the Holy Week rush.
Details of the Counterflow Incident
The incident unfolded when Tayag was caught driving counterflow on a road marked with a straight white line, which mandates drivers to stay in their lanes. A video posted on a local Facebook page showed Tayag’s pickup truck, hazard lights blinking, involved in a tense traffic standoff with another vehicle presumably in the correct lane.
The footage, recorded from the driver’s seat perspective, clearly displayed Tayag’s license plate, making it easier for authorities to identify and take action. Community members noted the danger of such behavior, especially during periods of increased traffic volume.
LTO’s Show Cause Order and Preventive Suspension
In a show cause order dated August 16, the LTO instructed Tayag to appear at its Quezon City headquarters on August 22. He was also ordered to surrender his driver’s license during the hearing. Following this, the driver’s license was placed under a 90-day preventive suspension while the case is thoroughly investigated.
Transportation officials explained that this procedure aims to prevent further violations while ensuring due process. Tayag may face charges including Driving Against Traffic, Obstruction of Traffic, and being an Improper Person to Operate a Motor Vehicle.
Government’s Strong Stance on Counterflowing
This latest suspension aligns with the government’s strict stance against counterflowing vehicles. Just days earlier, the transportation chief ordered the lifetime cancellation of a driver’s license for a similar violation on the Skyway. This demonstrates the seriousness with which authorities are addressing road safety violations during peak travel seasons.
Local leaders emphasized that these measures are crucial to protect motorists and pedestrians alike. They urged drivers to follow traffic rules strictly to avoid accidents and penalties.
Ensuring Safer Roads This Holy Week
The LTO’s decisive action against Tayag sends a clear message to all motorists: reckless driving, especially counterflowing, will not be tolerated during the Holy Week rush. Authorities continue to monitor roads and encourage the public to report violations to maintain order and safety.
As travel demand surges, these enforcement efforts are vital to preventing traffic chaos and accidents. Community members expressed hope that these measures will promote responsible driving habits across the country.
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