The Land Transportation Office-Davao (LTO-11) has warned that the national highway cannot be used as a racetrack following reported accidents during the BOSS Ironman Mindanao Leg, which left a participant dead and a 12-year-old child injured.

The event involved big bikes traveling a 1,200-kilometer route across various areas in Mindanao.

The organizer said the funds raised would be used for outreach programs and to promote local tourism.

However, video footage circulating online showed alleged traffic violations, including overspeeding.

LTO-11 said no similar event has been held in the Davao Region.

The agency also emphasized that endurance rides like the Boss Ironman must comply with the Traffic Code of the Philippines (RA 4136) strictly.

“If we strictly follow the RA 4136 everybody is obligated to follow our traffic laws all transporation laws. Ang mga event na ganito if they were given proper permit, sa LGU yan na responsiblidad, pag pinayagan sila what we can do sa LTO on our end is to make sure they follow traffic laws,” LTO-11 Director, Atty. Ernesto Robillo, said.

Authorities also said that events of this nature require proper documents and coordination with concerned agencies to ensure the safety of all participants.

“Endurance ride ang gusto nila, diba? Dapat dito hindi time-bound para hindi nagmamadali. It would be better if it is connected to tourism. If they are going to ride, they should suppose to promote sites and views and tourism places that they are passing through,” Robillo added.

LTO has issued a show cause order to the organizer for alleged violations of traffic laws, including illegal use of blinkers.

GMA Regional TV One Mindanao is reaching out to the organizer for a statement, as of this writing.