LTO summons Manila Police District driver over viral Taft patrol incident
The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has issued a show-cause order against the registered owner and driver of a police mobile patrol unit of the Manila Police District (MPD) following a viral traffic incident on Taft Avenue.
The incident, which occurred near the Philippine General Hospital, involved a marked police mobile patrol that was seen in a video circulating on social media, allegedly obstructing traffic despite the green signal, prompting complaints from motorists using one of Manila’s busiest roads.
The LTO directed both the Philippine National Police (PNP), as the registered owner of the vehicle, and the patrol driver to appear before its Intelligence and Investigation Division and submit a verified explanation on why they should not face charges for reckless driving and obstruction of traffic, as well as possible suspension or revocation of the driver’s license.
The agency said the driver’s license has been placed under a 90-day preventive suspension and ordered surrendered pending the outcome of the investigation. The patrol vehicle has also been placed under alarm status to prevent any transactions while the case is being resolved.
The incident has drawn attention from motorists and residents in Manila, where traffic congestion remains a daily concern, particularly along major thoroughfares such as Taft Avenue.
As of writing, the Manila Police District has yet to release an official statement regarding the viral incident involving its mobile patrol unit.