World · Philippines Bureau
LTO Official Fired After Drunk Driving Hit-and-Run in Rizal
A Land Transportation Office employee has been dismissed and permanently stripped of driving privileges following a drunk driving incident in which he struck two women and fled the scene. LTO Chief Markus Lacanilao announced the termination on Tuesday.
LSN Philippines ·
The employee, who struck two women with his vehicle in Rizal on August 14, will face permanent revocation of his driver's license in addition to his dismissal from the agency, LTO Chief Markus Lacanilao said during a press briefing Tuesday.
The official was operating his vehicle while under the influence of alcohol when the collision occurred. Rather than rendering assistance to the injured women, he abandoned the scene, compounding the severity of the incident.
Lacanilao's decision to terminate the employee underscores the LTO's commitment to accountability among its personnel. The move sends a clear message that violations of traffic laws—particularly those involving impaired driving and failure to render assistance—will not be tolerated among government officials.
The incident has renewed scrutiny on drunk driving incidents in the Philippines, where traffic safety remains a persistent public health concern. The LTO has previously emphasized the dangers posed by impaired drivers and the importance of compliance with road safety regulations.