LTO-7 summons SUV driver who hit traffic enforcer

CEBU, Philippines — The Land Transportation Office in Central Visayas (LTO-7) has issued a show cause order against the driver involved in a hit-and-run incident that injured a traffic enforcer along Escario Street corner Osmeña Boulevard.

In a statement on Thursday, LTO-7 Regional Director Atty. Wendel C. Dinglasan said the order requires the driver, identified as Bartolome Robles Piol, to personally appear before the LTO-7 Operations Division on July 6, 2026.

He was also ordered to submit a verified or sworn explanation, along with supporting documents, explaining why administrative sanctions should not be imposed against him.

Piol, a retired engineer from the City of Toledo, had come to Cebu City to obtain some documents when the incident occurred.

He claimed that he complied with traffic enforcer Jovanie Verano's, 44, order to stop. However, he said he panicked when his vehicle suddenly lurched forward after he accidentally released the brake pedal.

He also said that he failed to shift his Isuzu MU-X into park, explaining that the vehicle has an automatic transmission and that he only uses two pedals.

Based on CCTV footage and the agency's initial investigation, the driver allegedly struck the traffic enforcer who was performing official traffic control duties, ran over the victim, and fled the scene without rendering the assistance required by law.

Pending the outcome of the administrative proceedings, LTO-7 has preventively suspended the driver's license for 90 days, effective immediately. The driver has also been ordered to surrender his license during the scheduled hearing.

The agency likewise placed the Isuzu MU-X under alarm status, temporarily prohibiting any transaction involving the vehicle with the LTO until further orders.

The administrative complaint cites possible violations of Section 27 (Improper Person to Operate a Motor Vehicle) and Section 48 (Reckless Driving) of Republic Act No. 4136, or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code.

LTO-7 said the complaint is without prejudice to the filing of appropriate criminal, civil, or other administrative cases under existing laws.

Dinglasan stressed that the agency would not tolerate irresponsible and reckless behavior on the road, particularly incidents that endanger the lives of traffic law enforcers and the motoring public. IHM  (CEBU NEWS)