LTO revokes license of truck driver in fatal Batasan-San Mateo road crash
The Land Transportation Office (LTO) revoked the license of the driver of the truck which killed three people and injured several others after ramming motor vehicles along the Batasan - San Mateo Road in Quezon City last month.
LTO chief, Assistant Secretary Vigor D. Mendoza II said the driver tested positive for illegal drugs use during a mandatory drug test and that is enough to strip him of the privilege to drive.
“Aside from the revocation, the truck driver was also perpetually disqualified from being granted a driver’s license,” said Mendoza.
In a three-page decision signed by Mendoza, the suspension was based on existing laws which empowers the LTO to revoke the license of motorists who are driving under the influence of liquor or drugs.
“The Land Transportation Office issues a driver's license to a person who possesses not only the skills to drive but also a strong sense of responsibility and commitment to obey traffic laws, rules and regulations,” the decision read.
“A person with a driver's license is likewise expected to give due consideration and respect to the other motorists and pedestrians and avoid acts which endanger lives, properties, and public safety,” it added.
Based on the initial report, the truck driver claimed that the truck lost its brakes while travelling 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 driver tested negative during the test conducted to determine if he was drunk but the drug testing yielded positive for the use of illegal drugs, particularly shabu.
“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,” said Mendoza.
“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 added.