By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz
MANILA – The Land Transportation Office (LTO) on Monday summoned the driver of a tuk-tuk that sideswiped a motorcycle and drove away, as seen in a viral video on Facebook.
In a show-cause order (SCO) issued by the LTO, the registered owner and driver of the tuk-tuk were asked to submit a written explanation as to why they should not be held liable for administrative violations for disregarding traffic signs, reckless driving, and improper person to operate a motor vehicle.
In a statement, Department of Transportation (DOTr) acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the tuk-tuk driver’s license has also been temporarily suspended for 90 days in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s order to ensure accountability for abusive drivers who break traffic laws.
“Mahigpit ang utos ng Pangulo na laging sumunod sa batas trapiko. Muli po naming pinapaalala na malaki ang pananagutan ng mga abusadong driver lalo na kung malalagay sa panganib ang buhay ng ibang mga motorista (The President strictly orders compliance with traffic laws. Again, we remind abusive driver that they have a big responsibility especially if they endanger the lives of other motorists),” Lopez said.
In the video that went viral on social media, a tuk-tuk – a three-wheeled vehicle similar to a tricycle – was seen sideswiping a motorcycle, which caused the latter to fall down, along with its driver and passenger.
Instead of stopping, the tuk-tuk driver sped off towards Roxas Avenue while being chased by another motorcycle rider who recorded the video.
The tuk-tuk driver was seen driving counter-flow, which scared the passengers, who demanded the driver stop. (PNA)
