By Gerome Dalipe IV
The Land Transportation Office Region 6 (LTO-6) has reaffirmed its call for motorists to follow traffic laws and respect law enforcement officers.
“Holding a driver’s license is a privilege, not a right,” said LTO-6 Regional Director Atty. Gaudioso P. Geduspan II, as he recommended the permanent revocation of a motorist’s license due to multiple violations and a confrontation with an LTO-6 enforcer.
Geduspan approved the recommendation of Sheila Mae C. Alulod, head of the LTO-6 Intelligence and Investigation Unit, to revoke the license of Jonard Arendain Servano for violating Republic Act No. 4136, also known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code.
“This action serves as a strong reminder that reckless and aggressive behavior on the road carries serious consequences,” Geduspan said.
He emphasized that the decision aligns with the directives of LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor Mendoza II to prioritize road safety.
Incident and Violations
On February 17, 2025, LTO-6 enforcer Cañete flagged down Servano on General Luna Street, Iloilo City, for failing to wear a standard helmet while riding a motorcycle.
Instead of complying, Servano allegedly reacted aggressively and issued verbal threats against the enforcer.
He was cited for multiple violations, including failure to wear a helmet and riding a motorcycle while wearing slippers.
His Temporary Operator’s Permit also documented his hostile and defiant behavior during the incident.
An investigation revealed that Servano attempted to evade apprehension and escalated the situation with threats against the enforcer.
The inquiry concluded that Cañete acted within his authority, while Servano displayed a blatant disregard for law enforcement and public safety.
LTO-6 Decision
Citing Chapter III, Article I, Section 27 of Republic Act No. 4136, which grants the LTO the power to suspend or revoke driver’s licenses, the Intelligence and Investigation Unit determined that Servano’s actions were unbecoming of a licensed driver.
The unit recommended the permanent revocation of his license, citing his threats and inappropriate conduct toward a law enforcement officer as grounds for disqualification.
LTO-6 Assistant Regional Director Jeck Conlu reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to reducing road crashes and fatalities by holding motorists accountable for reckless behavior.
“This incident underscores the importance of ensuring that only responsible individuals are entrusted with the privilege of driving,” Conlu said.
Geduspan highlighted alarming statistics, noting that road crashes cause an average of 12,000 deaths annually nationwide, with approximately 500 fatalities recorded in Western Visayas alone.
“Motorists must respect traffic laws and enforcement officers to maintain safety on our roads,” Geduspan said.
