A tricycle driver was arrested after he was caught driving without a license and beating the red light in Ermita, Manila on Thursday, Nov. 30.
The Manila Police District (MPD) identified the suspect as Joselito Vihick, 33, resident of Baseco Compound, Port Area, Manila.
According to the Manila Special Mayor's Reaction Team (SMART) led by Maj. Rommel Purisima, the tricycle driver was driving along United Nations Avenue corner of Mabini Street in Ermita when he beat the red light.
The arresting traffic enforcer, Andrey Macapagal, 43, said he was manning the intersection of United Nations Ave. at 2 p.m. when he saw the suspect driving the tricycle disregarding traffic lights.
The traffic enforcer flagged down the vehicle but the driver failed to show his valid driver's license.
Investigation showed that Vihick was also the suspect in a viral post by an Australian vlogger Dwaine Wooley, wherein the suspect was seen taking the vlogger from Adriatico Street to Robinsons Mall in Ermita for P500 fare.
"This incident was damaging the image of our country despite the efforts of our City Mayor Maria Honey Lacuna Pangan to develop tourism and generate jobs, attract tourists, and invest in Manila," MPD said.
The suspect's tricycle bearing plate number 136NII was brought to the impounding area of Manila Traffic And Parking Bureau (MTPB) located at the Central Market, Sta Cruz, Manila.
The suspect was charged for violation of Republic Act 4136 or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code.