By Gerome Dalipe IV
The Land Transportation Office Region VI (LTO-6) has issued a show cause order against a motorist who parked in front of a fire hydrant on May 28, 2025, near Molo Plaza—just as firefighters were refilling lines during a blaze in Barangay Habog-Habog Salvacion.
The enforcement action follows President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify road safety measures, implemented locally through the Department of Transportation under Secretary Vince Dizon and LTO-6 Regional Director Atty. Gaudioso P. Geduspan II.
According to the show cause order, the motorist’s sedan obstructed access to the hydrant at a critical moment, delaying the response of Federation Fire Volunteers and placing lives and property at risk.
Ms. Shiela Mae Alulod, chief of the LTO-6 Intelligence and Investigation Unit, personally served the order at the driver’s Jaro residence on June 5.
The motorist has five days to submit a written explanation or face a decision based solely on available evidence.
“Reckless parking near critical infrastructure like fire hydrants puts lives and property at serious risk,” said Geduspan.
He added that the move supports a nationwide campaign led by LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor Mendoza II to reinforce discipline among motorists.
“We will identify and hold accountable anyone whose traffic violations jeopardize public safety—whether through illegal parking or other offenses,” said Assistant Regional Director Jeck D. Conlu.
Under Section 46(e) of Republic Act 4136 or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, parking within four meters of a fire hydrant is prohibited.
Violators face fines, suspension of vehicle registration and other administrative penalties if found liable.
LTO-6 urged all motorists to observe traffic laws and respect designated safety zones, especially those essential to emergency response.
