LTO nabs 1,123 traffic violators in crackdown

MANILA,Philippines — More than a thousand traffic violators were apprehended in the Land Transportation Office (LTO)’s “one-time big-time” operations on Friday.

A total of 1,123 violators of various land transport and traffic laws were apprehended during the crackdown, according to data from the LTO’s Law Enforcement Service.

Many motorists were apprehended for not wearing seatbelts, not wearing a helmet when riding a motorcycle, distracted driving and overloading.

At least one motorist was arrested with an expired driver’s license and tested positive for drug use. He was turned over to the local police.

LTO chief Edgar Galvante said the operations were just part of the agency’s continuing enforcement program that aims to prevent road crashes.

Galvante said it is in compliance with President Duterte’s order for the LTO and other government agencies to conduct joint operations against violators of road and traffic laws.

He has instructed all regional offices to conduct similar operations in cooperation with local government units and police.