BACOLOD City — The Land Transportation Office – Negros Island Region (LTO-NIR) has imposed a three-month driver’s license suspension on an individual linked to a series of alleged “gas-and-go” incidents in Bacolod City involving a rented vehicle driven by unlicensed persons.
In a statement posted on social media, the LTO-NIR said the respondent was found administratively liable for allowing individuals without valid driver’s licenses to operate a motor vehicle, in violation of existing land transportation laws and regulations.
The sanction was imposed through a resolution issued by the agency’s Regional Law Enforcement Section under the supervision of LTO-NIR Officer-in-Charge Regional Director Jeck D. Conlu and Assistant Regional Director Monico A. Puentevella Jr.
According to the investigation, the respondent rented a vehicle that was later allegedly involved in incidents in which fuel was taken from gasoline stations in Bacolod City without payment — commonly referred to as “gas-and-go.”
Investigators found that the vehicle had been entrusted to individuals who did not possess valid driver’s licenses at the time of the incidents.
The case stemmed from a viral video circulating online showing a black-and-white Mitsubishi Xpander allegedly fleeing from a gasoline station in Barangay Mansilingan, Bacolod City, on February 27 after reportedly obtaining P500 worth of fuel without paying.
The incident prompted the LTO-NIR to launch an investigation and issue a show cause order against the registered owner of the vehicle.
According to the agency, the order was served at the owner’s residence in a town in Negros Occidental and was later explained through a phone call.
The LTO-NIR emphasized that vehicle owners and individuals exercising control over vehicles are responsible for ensuring that only qualified and licensed drivers are allowed to operate motor vehicles.
The agency said the penalty serves as a reminder that accountability comes with vehicle ownership and use, especially amid ongoing efforts to strengthen road safety enforcement and ensure compliance with transportation laws./PN
