Land Transportation Office (LTO) authorities chased a 31-year-old van driver along Kennon Road following several complaints from motorists about racing and crowding other vehicles at 1:00 P.M. on Sunday, February 1.

The van was flagged down by LTO personnel during a Roadside and Anti-Colorum Checkpoint. Instead of stopping, the driver reportedly attempted to flee and was eventually cornered by the LTO after ramming into an LTO vehicle.

According to PBGen. Glenn Dumlao (Ret.), Regional Director of LTFRB-CAR, the chase lasted from Police Station 8 to beyond Lion’s Head.

An investigation revealed that the driver had an expired license and lacked the necessary papers for the vehicle. Moreover, he had previous violations, PBGen. Dumlao said.

“Napakarami niyang violation, yung iba hindi na naharap pang iayos, meron siyang violation sa hindi pagsusuot ng helmet at walang tamang gear.”

[“The driver has many violations, some of which have not been properly resolved. He also has violations for not wearing a helmet and lacking proper gear.”]

After the chase, Baguio City Police arrested the driver, charging him with a violation of Article 151 for resistance and disobedience to a person in authority or their agents.

The driver was temporarily released after posting a ₱2,000 bail. However, the LTO plans to file additional complaints against the suspect.

“Habang buhay nang revoked ang kaniyang lisensya, hindi na siya makapapagmaneho kailanpaman,” PBGen. Dumlao stated.

[“His driver’s license will be revoked for life, and he will never be allowed to drive again.”]

The suspect’s van is currently impounded at the Department of Transportation Office.

~Vanessa Bugtong