LTO surprises erring motorists

CEBU, Philippines — Around 500 erring motorists were surprised to receive Christmas gifts instead of violation tickets from the Land Transportation Office (LTO) in Central Visayas.

LTO personnel flagged down motorists plying the Transcentral Highway  in the guise of roadside traffic education.

LTO-7 Regional Director Victor Caindec said the motorists were given sacks of rice, food vouchers and driver’s academy scholarship instead of issuing temporary operator’s permit.

“Atong gi flagged down ang kutob sa mangagi unya gi check ilang sakyanan if naa bay mga violations and we also checked if naa ba silay mga license. Then after ana ato-a silang gipapili unsa nga Christmas treats ilang gusto. Ang kadtong naay mga  violations, gi warningan na lang sa,” Caindec told The FREEMAN.

Caindec said 150 motorcycle riders were given a driving school scholarship.

New driver's license applicants for both non-professional and professional are required to secure a Practical Driving Course (PDC) Certificate from LTO-accredited driving schools.

Meanwhile, Caindec, in a Facebook post, gave clarifications on specific motorcycle modifications after a dialogue made earlier among motorcycle groups and law enforcement agencies amidst the ongoing apprehensions.

The director clarified that auxiliary lights are allowed as long as it will not exceed more than two units.

Also, he said light upgrade is legal as long as it follows the correct color according to where it is positioned.

Caindec added that acceptable modification includes crash guard, thai bolts, cellphone holders, modified seats, upgraded side mirrors and aftermarket mufflers are acceptable as long as it is within 115 decibels and below.

However, rearsets, handlebar modification and chassis extension are not allowed.

Caindec further reminded motorcycle owners who installed top boxes and sideboxes on their unit to secure a permit from the agency. — KQD (FREEMAN)