LTO agents in hot water for viral video

The Transport Department (DTR) ordered the preventive suspension of the entire staff of the Terrestrial Transport Bureau (LTO) involved in a controversial control operation in Fergano, Bohol, following an incident that was viral on social media.

In a statement published by the Central LTO Office on Saturday, March 1, 2025, Secretary DTR, Vince Dizon, ordered the preventive suspension of the agents, waiting for a complete investigation into the LTO staff involved.

A Facebook video of the incident distributed on Friday, February 28, showed a motorcycle driver manipulated by four LTO agents during a checkpoint, after being found in possession of two kitchen knives.

The man, later identified as Erifredo Velasco, 59, was heard pleading to LTO countless times, “Farmer Ko, sir. Farmer Ko, sir (I’m a farmer, sir. I’m a farmer, sir) while he fell to the ground after he was dragged by an agent.

Complaint

A report of the Panglao Police Section said that Velasco was arrested on the same day for violating Article 153 of the revised Criminal Code (troubled disorders or interruption that can cause disturbances).

The police report said that Velasco, a resident in Barangay Bolod, interrupted the LTO operation when he cried: “Mga ra’y dakpon Ninyo! (You have arrested only the poor!) ”

The LTO operation in Barangay Tawala was led by a particular Johny Cella.

Before agitation, Velasco was seen crossing the road to talk to LTO agents performing the control point.

The video showed him talking to an LTO identified as Eduardo Flores.

The agents then accompanied him back to his motorcycle and looked for him. At this moment, the agents found hidden knives in their pants and under the jacket.

The police report claimed that LTO officers “carried out the arrest” after realizing that Velasco had a knife.

Following his arrest, Velasco was taken to the Panglao Tourist Police and taken to the Municipal Health Bureau for a medical examination. He remains under the custody of the police, while accusations are prepared.

Meanwhile, LTO 7 issued public apologies and suspended all the law enforcement operations in Bohol, while withdrawing all the land officers waiting for the probe.

“First of all, LTO 7 regrets the disturbing nature of the incident and apologizes for any concern that the public could have caused,” read a part of the statement.

“We understand the severity of the situation and assure you that the appropriate process will be followed by a thorough and impartial investigation. Make sure, LTO 7 is committed to transparent, responsibility and maintain public confidence in our operations, ”said LTO 7. / Cdf