By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA, Philippines — Metro Manila Development Authority General Manager Nicolas Torre III has paid a total of P14,000 in penalties following a series of traffic violations involving a vehicle under his supervision, the Land Transportation Office said.
LTO Chief Markus Lacanilao said the violations included unauthorized use of the EDSA busway, tampering involving license plates, reckless driving, and the improper use of blinkers.
The vehicle was voluntarily surrendered to the LTO and remains in the agency’s custody as authorities proceed with their investigation.
Lacanilao stressed that the rules governing the use of blinkers are specific, with such privileges limited to authorized government officials and emergency and law-enforcement vehicles.
Among those authorized under existing rules are the President, Vice President, Senate President, House Speaker, law enforcement units and ambulances.
The LTO chief said government personnel should observe the same traffic regulations being enforced against other motorists.
Torre has apologized for the violations, while the LTO continues its proceedings concerning the vehicle and the reported offenses.
ia/xf
