Dog Transported in Trunk Sparks LTO Investigation
ANIMAL CRUELTY? – The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has issued a Show Cause Order (SCO) to the registered owner and driver of a sedan who was caught transporting a dog in the trunk of a moving vehicle. The video, which was widely criticized by netizens and animal welfare groups, showed a dog placed in the open trunk of a Mitsubishi Mirage while the car was on the road.
According to LTO Chief Vigor Mendoza II, the order was sent to the vehicle’s registered owner, a resident of Cavite, to give him the opportunity to explain his side regarding the incident. The video was initially uploaded by the Animal Kingdom Foundation on Facebook and later came to the attention of authorities through the LTO’s social media monitoring.
Signed by Renante Melitante, Chief of the LTO’s Intelligence and Investigation Division, the order requires the vehicle owner to explain why he should not be held accountable for violating road safety regulations. Possible charges include reckless driving and being an improper person to operate a motor vehicle—both serious offenses that could result in the revocation of the driver’s license.
In line with this, the LTO also plans to invite representatives from the Animal Kingdom Foundation and the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) to attend the first hearing, scheduled for May 13 at the LTO Central Office. Their participation aims to ensure that animal welfare concerns are addressed and that all parties are fairly heard.
Meanwhile, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) is a government agency in the Philippines that operates under the Department of Transportation (DOTr). It is responsible for managing and regulating land transportation across the country. Its main duties include issuing driver’s licenses and permits, registering motor vehicles, and enforcing traffic rules and road safety laws.
The LTO also oversees vehicle inspections to ensure they are roadworthy and safe to use. Through these responsibilities, the LTO aims to promote safe, efficient, and orderly land transportation for all road users, including motorists, passengers, and pedestrians.