LTO revokes license of truck driver in Batasan-San Mateo road crash
Land Transportation Office Assistant Secretary Vigor Mendoza. Inquirer photo/Niño Jesus Orbeta
MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has revoked the license of a truck driver involved in a road crash along Batasan-San Mateo Road in Quezon City, which killed three individuals, last week.
In a statement on Thursday, LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Vigor Mendoza II said the decision was made after the driver tested positive in the mandatory drug test, showcasing that he was using shabu.
“Our DOTr [Department of Transportation] Secretary Vince Dizon has strictly ordered that there will be no second chance for drivers who use illegal drugs, so we have zero-tolerance here,” Mendoza said in Filipino.
READ: QCPD: Driver in San Mateo Road crash tests positive for drug use
The LTO chief added that aside from the revocation, “the truck driver was also perpetually disqualified from being granted a driver’s license.”
“This should serve as a stern warning that the use of illegal drugs and even drunk driving will never be tolerated and will be faced with serious consequences,” Mendoza said.
“Let us be reminded that the granting of a driver’s license is a privilege that can be revoked any time once a person defies all the expectations for him to be a responsible and disciplined driver,” he furthered.
According to the initial report of the LTO, the driver said that the 10-wheeler truck lost its brakes while traveling along the Batasan-San Mateo Road on May 28.
“As a result, he lost control of the steering wheel which led to the trailer falling on the center island and the truck ramming several motor vehicles,” the LTO said.
The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) earlier reported that the crash killed one rider and one male pedestrian on the spot, while the third fatality was declared dead on arrival in a hospital after sustaining injuries.
READ: 3 dead in multi-vehicle crash along San Mateo Road in Quezon City
During the Holy Week exodus in April, the LTO recalled it revoked the license of almost 100 bus drivers and conductors for testing positive for illegal drugs. /jpv
