By Gerome Dalipe IV
Being late for work or rushing to finish a transaction may explain why a motorist is in a hurry—but it does not excuse breaking traffic rules.
That was the pointed reminder from Land Transportation Office Region-VI (LTO-6) Director Atty. Gaudioso P. Geduspan II after the motorcycle rider at the center of a viral crosswalk incident in Iloilo City appeared before him to answer a Show Cause Order.
The rider, who was filmed refusing to yield to pedestrians along Diversion Road in Mandurriao district, Iloilo City on July 27, personally submitted his written explanation to the LTO-6 chief.
“Being in a hurry to work, or any transaction, does not give you the license to disregard traffic rules and regulations,” Geduspan told the motorist.
The rider admitted that he ignored the pedestrian lane and continued despite a pedestrian already crossing. He explained that he was rushing that day to pick up parcels for delivery.
He apologized for the violation and assured Geduspan that he would not repeat the same mistake.
The incident was captured on video by another motorist. Several vehicles had already stopped to allow pedestrians to cross at the designated lane.
The motorcycle rider, however, continued through the crossing even as pedestrians were already on the road.
What happened next added another twist to the viral footage. Moments after the motorcycle passed through the crosswalk, one of the pedestrians struck the rider on the head. The video quickly circulated online, triggering mixed reactions from netizens.
However, Geduspan said the incident goes beyond the viral video.
He stressed that pedestrians have the right of way once they step onto a designated pedestrian crossing and reminded motorists that a driver’s license carries a responsibility to follow the law and protect other road users.
The LTO-6 chief directed the Regional Office’s Intelligence and Investigation Unit to evaluate and resolve the case based on the allegations contained in the Show Cause Order and the rider’s written response.
Being in a rush may be part of the day—but Geduspan reminds motorists that it should never be a reason to put someone else’s safety at risk.