LTO-7 Demands Explanation from TV Reporter Over Hit-and-Run Incident in Cebu City
The Land Transportation Office in Region 7 (LTO-7) has taken decisive action against a television reporter and his media company, ordering them to explain serious traffic violations linked to a hit-and-run incident that occurred in Barangay Capitol Site, Cebu City. The incident, which took place on Friday, January 23, 2026, has sparked widespread attention after a video of the event went viral on social media platforms.
Show Cause Order Issued for Multiple Traffic Violations
Acting on the evidence gathered from the viral footage, Atty. Vincent Francis Bien Santiago, the acting chief of the Operations Division at LTO-7, signed a show cause order targeting the reporter, identified only as "Mike," and the television station that owns the vehicle involved. This legal directive requires the parties to provide a written explanation for their actions, with a deadline set for Wednesday, January 29, 2026, at the LTO-7 office on N. Bacalso Avenue.
According to the LTO-7 investigation, Mike is accused of committing several grave traffic offenses, including:
- Reckless Driving under Section 48 of RA 4136, which governs traffic rules and regulations.
- Improper Person to Operate a Motor Vehicle under Section 27 of RA 4136, highlighting concerns about his fitness to drive.
- Violations of the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act (RA 10586), with allegations that he was driving under the influence of alcohol or prohibited substances.
- Disregarding Traffic Signs as per Joint Administrative Order 2014-01, indicating a failure to obey road safety signals.
Additional Legal Complications and Potential Consequences
Further complicating the case, LTO-7's database review revealed that Mike does not possess a valid driver's license. This discovery adds to the severity of his legal troubles, potentially invoking stricter penalties under RA 4136 and RA 10930, which address licensing requirements and penalties for unlicensed driving.
In a statement released on January 26, 2026, LTO-7 emphasized the gravity of the violations, warning that Mike could face disqualification from obtaining a driver's license in the future. "Due to the severity of these violations, this media personality may face disqualification from holding a license," the agency stated, underscoring the serious repercussions of his actions.
Failure to Comply and Ongoing Legal Proceedings
The LTO-7 has made it clear that failure by Mike and the media outlet's representative to appear and submit the required explanation will be interpreted as a waiver of their right to be heard. In such a scenario, the agency will proceed with imposing penalties based on the available evidence, which could include fines, suspension, or other sanctions.
It has been reported that Mike was apprehended on Saturday, January 24, following a chase that involved police and concerned citizens. The pursuit began on Osmeña Boulevard and concluded in Barangay Tisa. Currently, he is detained at the Cebu City Police Station 10 in Labangon, while his employing media outfit has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident.
This case highlights the LTO-7's commitment to enforcing traffic laws rigorously, regardless of an individual's profession or public profile. It serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety and the legal obligations all drivers must uphold to prevent accidents and ensure public welfare.
