Cebu LTO Issues Show Cause Order Against TV Reporter in Viral Hit-and-Run Case
Cebu LTO Orders TV Reporter to Explain Viral Hit-and-Run

Cebu LTO Issues Show Cause Order Against TV Reporter in Viral Hit-and-Run Case

The Land Transportation Office in Central Visayas, known as LTO 7, has taken formal action by issuing a show cause order against a media personality based in Cebu and the registered owner of the vehicle involved in a widely circulated social media video that depicts a hit-and-run incident. This development follows the viral spread of the footage, which has sparked public outrage and calls for accountability.

Details of the Official Order and Alleged Violations

According to the official order, which was signed by lawyer Vincent Francis Bien Santiago, the acting chief of the Operations Division and Regional Legal Officer of LTO 7, the video evidence clearly shows the driver engaging in a hit-and-run while committing multiple infractions of traffic laws and regulations. The driver is facing a series of serious charges, including:

  • Section 48 (Reckless Driving) under Republic Act 4136, also known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code.
  • Section 27 (Improper Person to Operate a Motor Vehicle) under the same RA 4136.
  • Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or dangerous drugs and similar substances, as stipulated under RA 10586, the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013.
  • Disregarding traffic signs, which falls under Joint Administrative Order (JAO) 2014-01.

LTO records have further revealed that the driver was found to have no valid driver's license at the time of the incident, compounding the severity of the situation. This lack of licensure means the individual is also facing additional violations under RA 4136 and RA 10930, with corresponding penalties that could include fines, suspension, or even imprisonment.

Potential Consequences and Required Actions

Due to the gravity of the alleged violations, the media personality involved may face disqualification from obtaining a driver's license in the future, a significant repercussion that underscores the seriousness of the case. In response, LTO 7 has mandated that both the driver and the registered owner of the vehicle must appear personally before the LTO 7 Operations Division, located on N. Bacalso Avenue in Cebu City, on Wednesday, January 29, 2026.

During this appearance, they are required to submit a written explanation regarding the incident and show cause based on the alleged violations outlined in the order. Failure to comply with this directive—by not appearing or failing to file the required explanation by the specified date and time—will be interpreted as a waiver of their right to be heard. In such an event, the office will proceed to resolve the case based on the available records, which could lead to formal charges being filed and further legal action.

This case highlights the ongoing efforts by transportation authorities to enforce traffic laws strictly, especially in high-profile incidents that gain public attention through social media. It serves as a reminder of the legal responsibilities of drivers and vehicle owners in the Philippines.