Taal LTO chief in hot seat after riding without helmet

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) is the sole government agency authorized by law to enforce national traffic rules and apprehend violators. To strengthen on-ground enforcement, the LTO may also deputize police personnel, local government traffic units, and even qualified private entities to help implement traffic laws nationwide.

As such, LTO personnel, especially those in leadership roles, are expected to uphold traffic laws to the letter. Yet there are still a few who seem to believe their position grants them the privilege to bend the rules. LTO Chief Markus Lacanilao, however, is making it clear that no one within the agency is above the law.

Recently, a Show Cause Order (SCO) was issued to LTO Taal Extension Office chief Gilda Zubia, requiring her to explain why administrative charges and other sanctions should not be imposed on her. This came after she was photographed riding a motorcycle without a safety helmet—a violation that quickly went viral on social media.

In his post, the netizen expressed frustration that LTO Taal personnel were out on the roads enforcing traffic laws, yet seemed to overlook violations committed by their own chief.

The LTO added that Zubia has been relieved from her post to allow an impartial and thorough investigation to proceed.

“Hindi natin maaaring balewalain ang anumang paglabag sa batas-trapiko, lalo na kung mismong hepe pa ng aming tanggapan ang sangkot,” said LTO CALABARZON Regional Director, Elmer Decena.

(We cannot ignore any violation of traffic laws, especially when it involves the head of our own office.)

Decena added that his office has already submitted a recommendation to the LTO Central Office in Quezon City for Zubia’s immediate suspension. He also assured the public that the agency remains committed to enforcing the law fairly and without favor. Decena likewise urged citizens to report similar incidents, especially those involving government personnel, so that proper accountability can be pursued to the fullest extent of the law.