LTO Calls Out Car Driver for Inhumanely Transporting Dog in Open Trunk
LTO – The agency has summoned an irresponsible car driver for allegedly transporting a dog in an open trunk.
Recently, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) has issued a show cause order to the registered owner and driver of a Mitsubishi Mirage after a video went viral showing a dog placed in the car’s open trunk while the vehicle was moving.
The Facebook page “Animal Kingdom Foundation” posted the video, which quickly caught the attention of authorities. The video quickly circulated online and garnered reactions from the internet users.
In the video, the dog can be seen sitting in the open trunk, exposed and unsecured, while the car drives along the road. The vehicle is registered to a resident of Cavite. The LTO took the matter seriously and ordered the car owner to explain why they should not be held liable for violating road safety rules.
The LTO’s Intelligence and Investigation Division signed a show cause order pointing out the possible violations including reckless driving and being unfit to operate a motor vehicle. If proven guilty, the penalties could include the suspension or revocation of the driver’s license.
“This investigation will also find out if the vehicle was being driven by the registered owner or it was being driven by another person at the time of the incident,” LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II said.
The LTO emphasized that the welfare of animals, especially during transport, is a serious concern. Carrying a dog in such an unsafe manner puts both the animal and other road users at risk.
“We understand the concerns of the netizens and the Animal Kingdom Foundation over this incident. This is not only about animal rights but also involves road safety,” Mendoza added.
The agency will also invite representatives from the Animal Kingdom Foundation and the Philippine Animal Welfare Society to attend the first hearing scheduled on May 13 at the LTO Central Office as part of the investigation.
In a previous report, abusive students earns online criticisms over animal cruelty video
The social media users expressed their reactions to the post:
