Land Transportation Office (LTO) Chief, Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II, has mandated refresher courses for all agency enforcers across the country following a viral incident in Panglao, Bohol.
“The incident in Bohol highlights the need for a deeper, more systematic approach to enforcement. To prevent similar occurrences in the future, we are implementing mandatory retraining for all LTO enforcers nationwide,” said Asec Mendoza.
He has directed the LTO-Law Enforcement Service (LES) at the Central Office to develop an updated enforcement protocol to ensure proper adherence to traffic rules and regulations.
The retraining program will emphasize human rights awareness and proper enforcement procedures to uphold road safety regulations.
Asec Mendoza’s directive follows a viral video showing five LTO enforcers allegedly manhandling a motorcycle rider who was reportedly carrying a knife during an enforcement operation in Panglao.
Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon has already ordered the immediate preventive suspension of all LTO personnel involved, pending the outcome of a thorough and impartial investigation.
“This suspension will remain in effect until the investigation is completed,” the DOTr said in a statement.
In response to the incident, Asec Mendoza initially suspended the deployment of LTO enforcers in Bohol while awaiting the results of the investigation.
Corrective measures are now underway, including the mandatory retraining program. Additionally, the LTO will seek the assistance of the Philippine National Police in formulating enforcement guidelines and conducting the retraining sessions.