LTO summons rider in Marilaque stunt crash

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has summoned a motorcycle rider involved in a stunt exhibition along Marilaque Highway in Tanay, Rizal that resulted in the death of another rider.

LTO chief Vigor Mendoza II said a show-cause order has been sent to the address of the rider in Lipa, Batangas.

The rider has been directed to submit a written explanation on why he should not be charged with reckless driving.

Video footage of the incident went viral on social media and drew attention to the danger of reckless riding.

“I personally saw the video. It was tragic and could have been avoided if they had chosen to be responsible motorcycle riders,” Mendoza said. “There will be a hearing on this case as part of due process and I expect the rider to explain well since what is at stake here is the privilege given to him by the government to ride a motorcycle.”

Mendoza said the stunt caused injuries to six other road users and indicated clear violations of traffic rules and regulations.

According to the show-cause order signed by LTO-Calabarzon chief Elmer Decena, the rider – who is also a motovlogger – was one of two people who  performed unsafe maneuvers “recklessly or without reasonable caution and regard to safety of others.”

The LTO required the rider to appear or submit a sworn response within five days upon receipt of the order along with supporting documents.

The agency said failure to submit an explanation would mean that the rider is waiving his right and authorizing the LTO to decide on the case based on pieces of evidence at hand.