Calamba city: The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has issued a show-cause order (SCO) against both the driver and the registered owner of a utility vehicle involved in a fatal hit-and-run incident that resulted in the death of an elderly pedestrian in Calamba City, Laguna.

According to Philippines News Agency, LTO chief Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao mandated the issuance of the SCO following a viral video of the incident, which was verified by the agency's Intelligence and Investigation Division (IID). Lacanilao emphasized the importance of accountability, stating his commitment to ensuring that reckless driving acts that endanger lives do not go unpunished.

The driver and vehicle owner have been summoned to appear before the IID to provide sworn statements justifying why they should not be held accountable for reckless driving and why the driver's license should not face suspension or revocation. The driver's license has already been placed under a 90-day preventive suspension, with an order to surrender it to the IID.

Furthermore, the utility vehicle involved has been placed under alarm status, preventing it from undergoing any LTO transactions, including registration renewal, until the case is resolved. Lacanilao reiterated the agency's commitment to enforcing strict laws to ensure road safety for all.

The video evidence shows the elderly pedestrian being struck with force by the high-speed utility vehicle, leading to severe injuries that resulted in the victim's death. The tragic incident occurred on July 7, around 4 a.m., along the National Highway in Barangay Makiling, Calamba City.