LTO summons Maria Isabel Lopez for ASEAN lane violation

Actress Maria Isabel Lopez has been summoned by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) after she removed traffic cones and entered a designated lane for delegates of the ASEAN Summit.

In a text message to reporters on Monday, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Assistant Secretary for Communications Leah Quiambao said the LTO has issued the summon to Lopez on Sunday for disregarding traffic signs, violation of the Anti-Distracted Driving Act, and reckless driving.

LTO chief Edgar Galvante said "proper investigation procedures will be observed" against Lopez.

He, nonetheless, assured that the results of their probe against Lopez "will be anchored on the truth, and adherence to the rule of law."

In a separate text message to reporters, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board member Atty. Aileen Lizada said that the DOTr has already instructed LTO to pursue the case against Lopez.

In posts on Facebook and Instagram on Saturday, Lopez posted about how she removed the divider cones that defined the ASEAN lane, entered it, and happily drove on. 

She posted a selfie and two videos that showed her swift drive down the lane, while the rest of EDSA was on standstill.

The post quickly drew flak on social media, while government agencies tapped to ensure the security of the ASEAN Summit criticized the Binibining Pilipinas Universe 1982 titleholder.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said they have recommended the suspension of Lopez's driver's license. 

Lopez apologized for driving in the ASEAN lane in a Facebook post on Sunday. 

The MMDA has reminded motorists not to violate the temporary traffic rules and regulations for the 31st Summit and Related Meetings. —Joseph Tristan Roxas and Marlly Rome Bondoc/KG, GMA News