San Juan City: Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon has dismissed an official from the Land Transportation Office (LTO) in Baguio after the individual was arrested for involvement in a vehicular crash while allegedly under the influence of alcohol.
According to Philippines News Agency, the LTO-Motor Vehicle Registration chief Edilberto Bongaoen was relieved of his duties, following Dizon's orders, as part of a directive to uphold President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s reminder that government officials and employees are public servants. In a press conference held at the Department of Transportation office in San Juan City, Dizon emphasized the importance of adherence to the rule of law and the need for government workers to serve the public dutifully.
Beyond Bongaoen's immediate suspension, Dizon has initiated proceedings for his termination in coordination with the Civil Service Commission. He stated that such behavior is intolerable within the LTO and the Department of Transportation, stressing the gravity of the violation to prevent similar future incidents.
Dizon further highlighted the critical nature of road safety, especially for those employed by the LTO. He remarked that adherence to road laws is fundamental, and drunk driving poses significant risks, making it alarmingly easy to cause accidents.