LTO probing 2 enforcers for transferring gas to vehicle in impounding area

Two personnel of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) have been ordered suspended amid a pending investigation into allegations that they transferred gasoline into a vehicle within the LTO impounding area.

In a statement, the LTO said the photo of the incident went viral on social media and gave rise to concerns that the enforcers’ actions may be illegal.

The agency ordered their suspension and issued a show cause order (SCO) against the two enforcers, compelling them submit their written explanation on the incident within five days.

The two were found to be personnel of the LTO Central Office’s Law Enforcement Service (LES).

“The intent behind the transfer remains unclear, particularly whether it involved personal benefit or financial gain. Such conduct, if proven, constitutes a serious violation as it suggests the unauthorized use of government resources for personal gain and punishable under RA (Republic Act) 3019, otherwise known as the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act,” the SCO read.

The verified explanation should explain “why no administrative action shall be taken against you pursuant to 2015 Rules on Administrative Cases in the Civil Service.”

The LTO enforcers were also told to include any documentary evidence in support of their comment.

“Failure to submit the required verified comment/explanation within the specified period shall be construed as a waiver of your right to submit the same, and the preliminary investigation may be completed in the absence thereof,” the SCO added.

“Walang puwang sa LTO ang anumang uri ng iregularidad, pang-aabuso, o paggamit ng resources ng gobyerno para sa pansariling interes. Agad nating pinakikilos ang ating mga tanggapan upang tiyakin na ang lahat ng alegasyon ay maimbestigahan nang patas at naaayon sa batas,” LTO chief and Transportation Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao said.

(There is no room for any kind of irregularity, abuse, or use of government resources for personal interests in the LTO. We ordered our offices to ensure that all allegations are investigated fairly and in accordance with the law.)

Lacanilao added that the LTO will beef up its campaign to uphold integrity, discipline, and accountability among their ranks as part of internal cleansing initiatives. — JMA, GMA News