LAND Transportation Office (LTO) chief Vigor Mendoza II ordered its Law Enforcement Service (LES) to investigate an incident involving a group of motorcycle riders obstructing traffic flow in Cainta, Rizal which irked motorists and netizens.
Video of the incident went viral in social media.
In a statement on Thursday, Mendoza said he wanted clarity if the event, claimed to be a motorcade, was permitted by any local government unit, since it obstructed traffic and affected motorists and commuters.
"We already identified the group involved and we want them to explain why they should not be sanctioned for obstructing traffic flow," said Mendoza. "What's happening here is that the bikers planned their own motorcade and the LTO is even one with the people who are angry because of this inconvenience."
The video showed riders of a motorcycle hailing app acting as if they're in charge of the road, as they blocked motorists crossing the intersection in Cainta, Rizal.
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In addition, the app's chief executive officer also apologized on the incident, but the LTO chief also wants to pursue an investigation so that future incidents would not be repeated.
"I am aware of the incident and there are no excuses for our actions. This should not have happened and as CEO, I take full responsibility," the CEO said in a minute-long video, saying he should have done better and will cooperate with authorities.
Mendoza also said the app's bikers clearly violated traffic rules and regulations and lacked courtesy and discipline.
"We cannot have our own governments where we can just do whatever we want at the expense of motorists and commuters. I need an explanation on this and if it needs to impose harsh sanctions, so be it," he said.