Jeepney driver playing mobile game faces suspension of license

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) said on Friday that jeep drivers are not allowed to play mobile games while driving their vehicles, as it can result in accidents.

"Ipinagbabawal po yan. Pag nawala lang ang iyong paningin ng ilang seconds, pwede magresulta yan ng banggaan," said Roberto Valera, the deputy director of the LTO Law Enforcement Unit, in a "24 Oras" report.

He made this statement after watching a viral video of a jeepney driver playing the popular multiplayer game, "Mobile Legends", on his phone.

Although the LTO was able to track the driver down, he has not yet responded despite having a "show cause" order from the agency.

Valera said that they are planning to revoke the erring driver's license.

"Nasa section 27 Republic Act 4136 'yan na pag ang driver ay considered as an improper person to drive, pwede yan i-suspend o irevoke ang drivers' license," he explained.

According to an expert, the jeepney driver may be possibly experiencing digital addiction or gaming addiction, which is considered as a disease by the World Health Organization (WHO).

"The urge or the impulse to use the device or to play the online game ay di na naisasantabi in order to make a good judgment," said Dr. Jabbie Remigio, a clinical psychologist.

She added that this could cause safety problems for the driver, and for his passengers. —Angelica T. Yang/NB, GMA News