In line with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to hold accountable those who endanger public road safety, the Land Transportation Office (LTO), under the supervision of Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon, has preventively suspended the driver’s license of a bus operator caught playing an online game while driving.
LTO Chief and Acting Assistant Secretary Atty. Greg G. Pua Jr. confirmed that a 90-day preventive suspension has been issued to the driver of a Kersteen Joyce Transport bus, following the issuance of a show cause order.
“Grabe na ang pagka-adik ng driver sa online gambling—pati kaligtasan ng mga pasahero isinugal. Hindi natin ito palalampasin,” said Pua.
The incident was captured in a viral video taken by a concerned passenger, which showed the driver actively engaged in online gambling while navigating the Silang-Dasma route.
The LTO has filed multiple charges against the driver, including:
Reckless Driving (Section 48, R.A. 4136)
Violation of the Anti-Distracted Driving Act (Section 4, R.A. 10913)
Administrative case under Section 27(a), R.A. 4136 for being an Improper Person to Operate a Motor Vehicle
In addition, the LTO has summoned the bus company to explain why it should not be penalized for employing a reckless and irresponsible driver. The involved vehicle has also been placed under alarm status.
The show cause order emphasized: “Failure to appear and submit a written comment/explanation as required shall be construed as a waiver of your right to be heard. The case shall be resolved based on the available evidence.”
This action underscores the LTO’s commitment to upholding road safety and protecting the riding public from negligent and dangerous behavior.