The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has upheld a reckless driving citation issued to the son of motoring vlogger James Deakin after the teenager was stopped on Skyway Stage 3 in Quezon City for crossing a double solid yellow line last December 18.

LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao said the violation went beyond an improper lane change, noting that the vehicle the teenager was driving lacked proper registration documents. Investigators found the car had only importer-to-dealer paperwork, not a sales invoice or a valid Certificate of Registration, which he said made it illegal to be driven on public roads.

Deakin had publicly questioned the classification of the offense as reckless driving, calling it unfair for a new driver and criticizing LTO processes on social media. The agency clarified that driving an unregistered vehicle constitutes reckless driving under traffic rules, though it is not a criminal offense unless it causes injury or property damage.

The LTO also said the driver was given five days to contest the violation, but did not file an appeal. Subpoenas have been issued to explain why the charge should not stand, and show-cause orders were sent to both the vehicle dealer and the traffic enforcer involved as part of ongoing reviews.

Deakin’s complaint has sparked discussion online about enforcement and paperwork requirements, prompting the LTO to investigate the handling of the case.