For many Filipinos, the daily grind is stressful enough. Add heavy traffic, undisciplined motorists, and ego to the mix, and it’s no surprise that tempers flare behind the wheel. The unfortunate result is road rage, with drivers letting their frustration take over, leading to heated shouting matches of expletives, physical altercations, and, in the worst cases, serious injury or even death.

According to newly minted Land Transportation Office (LTO) Chief, Markus Lacanilao, road rage may not be new to Filipino motorists, but taking part in it shows a clear lack of discipline and emotional control. He emphasized that anyone who engages in such behavior is unfit to drive or ride, and will face a lifetime ban from holding a driver’s license.

“Matagal na natin naging problema ito, noong araw pa. Natatandaan nyo, early ‘90s ang daming namatay dahil sa road rage. Ang daming nasira ang buhay, ang daming nakulong. Kaya, kami sa LTO maghihigpit kami. Once na na-involve kayo sa road rage, ang rekomendasyon naming ay mawalan kayo ng lisensya pang-habang buhay,” said Lacanilao.

(This has long been a problem, even back in the day. If you remember, in the early ’90s, many lives were lost because of road rage. So many lives were ruined, so many people ended up in jail. That’s why we at the LTO will be stricter. Once you’re involved in a road rage incident, our recommendation is a lifetime revocation of your driver’s license.)

He also warned motorists to think twice before stepping out of their vehicles to start trouble, especially if it involves hurting someone else, as such actions carry serious consequences under the law.

So, ladies and gentlemen, remember to stay cool when driving or riding. Road rage is never worth it.