21 drivers charged over drunk driving

CEBU, Philippines — At least 21 drivers in Cebu have been arrested and charged for violating Republic Act No. 10586, also known as the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013, with three already convicted, according to the Land Transportation Office-7 (LTO-7).

LTO-7 Director Atty. Wendel Dinglasan disclosed that 18 of the drivers were apprehended in Cebu City. Meanwhile, three were caught in Talisay City and have already been convicted of violating RA 10586.

“These operations were conducted in coordination with the Philippine National Police, and the drivers tested positive for alcohol intake on the spot using our Alcohol Breath Analyzers (ABA) devices,” Dinglasan said in a statement.

“The remaining 18 cases are still pending before the Fiscal’s Office. We have been very strict with DUI (driving under the influence) drivers here in Cebu and in Bohol, as we have seen an increasing number of accidents involving them,” the regional director said.

Under RA 10586, it is illegal for any person to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, dangerous drugs, or similar substances. A driver is considered “under the influence” when their ability to safely control the vehicle is impaired, which may be determined through field sobriety tests or devices such as alcohol breath analyzers. Violators may face fines, license suspension or revocation, and even imprisonment depending on the severity of the offense and whether injuries or fatalities are involved.

Dinglasan said that all 21 apprehended drivers were male, aged between 19 and 40, including one Korean national.

He noted that most violators fall within the 20 to 30 age group, raising concerns about risky driving behavior among younger motorists.

“We are no longer limiting enforcement to fines and citations. Those caught will now be brought directly to the prosecutor’s office for immediate filing of cases,” he said.

Authorities observed that many of the incidents were recorded within the tri-city area–Cebu, Mandaue, and Lapu-Lapu–where nightlife establishments are heavily concentrated, contributing to increased cases of drunk driving.

The intensified anti-drunk driving campaign was launched when Dinglasan assumed office at LTO-7, in coordination with the PNP and enforcers from the LTO Central Office.

“We will continue our campaign against drunk drivers and will push for the filing of cases, ensuring that violators are convicted for breaking the law,” Dinglasan reiterated.

Currently, LTO-7 has 10 alcohol breath analyzers, with 15 additional units expected from the central office. These will be distributed to different cities across the region to further strengthen enforcement efforts.

Authorities continue to remind motorists that driving under the influence is not only a violation of the law but also a serious threat to public safety, urging drivers to avoid taking the wheel when intoxicated.

Meanwhile, Dinglasan also ordered the suspension of more than 200 driver’s licenses across the region due to various traffic violations.

Of the total, around 40 drivers have been recommended for license revocation, while 80 show-cause orders have been issued against drivers and vehicle owners.

Among the most common violations cited were road rage, reckless imprudence resulting in homicide, and reckless driving, including dangerous stunts posted online by content creators.

“We are fully aware of these so-called moto-influencers in Cebu who take advantage of their following to showcase stunts online. In fact, we have already revoked the licenses of three such vloggers,” Dinglasan said.

LTO-7 also issued a warning to motorcycle riders performing stunts along the Red Cliff section of the Cebu Transcentral Highway, stressing that such dangerous activities will not be tolerated.

Dinglasan urged all motorists to remain disciplined and prioritize road safety at all times. — /MRM (FREEMAN)