The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has arrested two individuals who allegedly caused a disturbance at its Central Office on October 16 after their vehicle plate replacement transaction was halted, as authorities investigate their possible involvement in illegal fixing.
In a press release, the LTO said the arrest was ordered by agency chief Assistant Secretary Markus V. Lacanilao after the two individuals allegedly shouted at and used inappropriate language against personnel from the Plate Unit and other agency officials.
According to the LTO’s Intelligence and Investigation Division (IID), the two were processing the replacement of special plates on behalf of a client. Although the application had been approved and the replacement plates were ready for release at the LTO National Capital Regional Office, the transaction could not proceed after the original plates presented for replacement were found to have already been used.
The agency also found that the individuals had no authorization from the vehicle’s registered owner to claim the replacement plates.
The two later sought assistance from Lacanilao’s office, where the LTO chief personally met with them to address their concerns. However, the agency said they continued arguing despite the intervention.
Personnel from the Highway Patrol Group (HPG) assigned to the LTO, together with the IID and Plate Unit staff, subsequently arrested the individuals and brought them to the HPG office at Camp Crame for investigation.
The LTO said the two would face complaints for alarm and scandal under Article 155 of the Revised Penal Code. Authorities are also investigating possible violations of Republic Act No. 11032, or the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018, in connection with alleged fixing.
The agency reiterated that all transactions must comply with established rules and procedures, adding that it would continue strengthening measures against fixing and other illegal activities to ensure transparent and efficient public service.
