The Land Transportation Office Region VI (LTO-6) is moving to permanently disqualify a motorcycle rider from obtaining a driver’s license after he was caught on video performing a dangerous “Superman” stunt in Don Salvador Benedicto, Negros Occidental.
The incident, which went viral on social media, has drawn widespread criticism for its blatant disregard for road safety, LTO 6 said.
On July 13 the rider of a Honda Click motorcycle was filmed lying flat on the seat while speeding along Orange Cliff in Don Salvador Benedicto prompting an immediate investigation by LTO-6.
Following the probe, LTO-6 Regional Director Gaudioso P. Geduspan II approved a resolution submitted by Intelligence and Investigation Unit Chief Shiela Mae C. Alulod, recommending the rider’s immediate disqualification from securing a driver’s license, an LTO 6 Facebook post said on Tuesday, July 22.
“This act posed a serious risk to public safety and is a blatant violation of safe driving practices,” the resolution stated.
A Show Cause Order was issued on July 14 to the registered owner of the motorcycle, who admitted to lending the vehicle to the rider.
The rider confessed to performing the stunt, claiming it was only for a photo opportunity and that he was traveling at a mere 24 km/h. He also expressed remorse and promised not to repeat the offense, the LTO 6 post said.
However, the LTO’s database check confirmed the rider does not hold a valid driver’s license, further aggravating his violation of Section 48 of Republic Act No. 4136, or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, which defines reckless driving as operating a vehicle without due caution or in a manner that endangers life or property, it said.
As a result, LTO-6 has placed the rider’s name on an alarm list, effectively barring him from ever being issued a driver’s license.
He will also face fines for “Reckless Driving” and “Driving Without a Valid Driver’s License” under Joint Administrative Order No. 2014-01, the LTO 6 said.
He is also required to undergo a Driver’s Reorientation Seminar conducted by the agency’s Traffic Safety Unit.
LTO-6 reiterated its commitment to monitoring social media and collaborating with local law enforcement to crack down on similar dangerous stunts across the region.
“Our priority is to protect the public by enforcing road safety regulations consistently and transparently,” Geduspan said.*