Gabriel Go Stands Firm After Viral Helmet Apprehension of a Teacher
GABRIEL GO – The viral apprehension of a teacher for not wearing a helmet continues to stir mixed reactions, prompting Gabriel Go to explain why he believes no one should receive special treatment.
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Special Operations Group–Strike Force Head Gabriel Go has stated the wave of criticism he received over his handling of a motorcycle rider, who was later identified as a teacher, for driving without a helmet.
On Tuesday, July 14, Go shared a video of the traffic stop on his social media page. Based on the rider’s attire and the conversation in the clip, the individual was confirmed to be working as a teacher.
In the caption of his post, Go emphasized the responsibility educators have in setting a positive example for young people.
“Teacher ka po sir, dapat ikaw ang better example sa kabataan. Tandaan natin, the school is our second home at ang mga guro ang tumatayong magulang…” he wrote.
During the inspection, Go requested the rider’s driver’s license and the motorcycle’s official documents before asking about his profession.
“Teacher ka tapos wala kang helmet? Paano naman natin tuturuan ang ating mga estudyante kung ganun?” Go was heard saying in the video.
The teacher apologized during the encounter and pleaded not to be recorded on video. However, Go declined the request, assuring him that his face would be blurred and that his identity would not be disclosed.
The video quickly circulated online, drawing mixed reactions from netizens. While some supported the enforcement of traffic laws, many criticized Go’s approach, with several commenters believing that the teacher was publicly embarrassed during the apprehension.
In response to the backlash, particularly from those in the education sector, Go released a separate statement defending his actions and reiterating that no profession should be exempt from following the law.
“Ang problema natin kalsada transcends beyond mga motorista or mga naglalakad, whatever your profession you are never ENTITLED FOR EXEMPTION.
“This goes to show that the problem of disorder on our streets is not just about the implementation of the law. It also raises questions about the role of our schools in shaping discipline, responsibility, and respect for rules. Schools are meant to be a second home, and teachers are expected to serve as guardians and role models for the youth,” said Go.
According to Go, being part of the academic community does not excuse anyone from complying with traffic regulations.
“In fact, educators are expected to uphold a higher standard because their actions influence the next generation,” Go said.
He further added, “Ang mas nakakalungkot, nahuli na nga dahil sa paglabag, nag-attempt pa umanong tumakbo. Kung ganito ang ipinapakitang halimbawa ng ilan sa mga inaasahan nating humuhubog sa kabataan, marahil panahon na ring pagnilayan kung paano natin mas mapapalakas ang kultura ng accountability, disiplina, at pagiging huwaran sa loob ng ating educational system.”
Concluding his statement, Go stressed the need for cultural and systemic change in the country, saying, “The hard pill to swallow, this is the system and culture that we need to change or else progress will always just be a dream for us Filipinos…”
Go is widely recognized for regularly posting videos of his road-clearing operations and traffic enforcement activities across Metro Manila, where he documents apprehensions involving violations of traffic and sidewalk regulations.
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