The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has identified the driver and registered owner of a public utility jeepney (PUJ) caught in a viral video showing reckless driving while carrying passengers hanging from the rear of the vehicle.

Following an investigation, the LTO issued a show cause order (SCO) against both the driver and the registered owner, requiring them to appear before the agency's Intelligence and Investigation Division and submit sworn explanations regarding the incident.

The driver faces charges of reckless driving and hitching and has also been ordered to explain why he should not be declared an improper person to operate a motor vehicle, which could result in the suspension or revocation of his driver's license. The registered owner, meanwhile, may face liability for allegedly employing a reckless driver.

Pending the outcome of the administrative proceedings, the LTO imposed a 90-day preventive suspension on the driver's license and ordered its immediate surrender. The agency also confiscated the jeepney's license plates and placed the vehicle under technical impoundment.

LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Markus V. Lacanilao stressed that public safety must never be compromised for profit.

"Hindi dapat isugal ang kaligtasan ng publiko para lamang makapagsakay ng mas maraming pasahero. Kailanman ay hindi kinukunsinte ng LTO ang ganitong uri ng paglabag at titiyakin namin na agad papanagutin ang mga sangkot sa ganitong uri ng iresponsableng pagmamaneho at patuloy na lumalabag sa umiiral na regulasyon," Lacanilao said.

The LTO also reminded motorists to practice responsible driving at all times and urged commuters to avoid riding in vehicles that exceed safe passenger capacity.