MANILA, Philippines – The Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) expressed it commitment to fully cooperate with transport authorities after a white sports utility vehicle (SUV) entered the EDSA Carousal Busway in Ortigas illegally last Thursday morning.
In a statement, the DBP assured the public that it is “one with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) in ensuring the safety and efficiency of the country’s transport systems, as well as upholding road safety and accountability.”
In the same statement, the DBP mentioned that they will “work closely” with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) once they receive the Show Cause Order (SCO), after it was revealed in investigations that the red plate number is registered to a Toyota Hiace Grandia Van, but was “illegally attached to the SUV” in question.
“Investigations revealed that the red plate SAA ****, registered to a Toyota Hiace Grandia Van, was illegally attached to the Fortuner,” the Department of Transportation Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation (DOTr-SAICT) stated on Friday, 9 May; adding that the plate number may not match the registered vehicle type.
DOTr-SAICT has formally asked the LTO to issue an SCO against the registered owner of a white sports utility vehicle (SUV), which illegally entered the EDSA Carousel Busway at Ortigas Station Northbound, and managed to flee authorities on Thursday morning, reports said.
The DBP explained that based on their records, it has “never owned nor maintained” a white Toyota Fortuner that matches the description in the publicized reports of the DOTr-SAICT and the Intelligence Committee for Transportation.
Moreover, the original plate in question remains in the possession of DBP, the statement read.
Courtesy of Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP)
The LTO’s Intelligence and Investigation Division has directed DBP to appear at its office in Quezon City on May 15, 2025.
DBP is also required to submit a written comment or explanation, along with supporting documents, to counter the allegations.
“Failure to comply will be deemed a waiver of their right to be heard, and the case will proceed based on existing evidence,” said in the statement.
The driver may be charged for violating Section 18 of the Republic Act 4136 or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, which governs the improper use of license plates.
