LTO 7 Responds to Incident Involving Farmer in Bohol
LTO vs FARMER – The Land Transportation Office (LTO) Region 7 has responded to public outrage over the arrest of a farmer in Panglao, Bohol, during a checkpoint operation. The incident, which quickly went viral online, shows LTO officers stopping the farmer and forcefully restraining him after discovering a knife in his possession.
In a statement, LTO 7 Regional Director Glen G. Alario acknowledged the public’s concerns and expressed regret over the distress the situation has caused. He assured that the agency remains committed to safety, fairness, and upholding the law. However, in light of the incident, LTO 7 has temporarily suspended law enforcement operations in Bohol and recalled its officers from the field while an investigation is conducted.
According to reports, the farmer, who was riding his motorcycle at the time, explained that the knife was simply a tool for his farming work. Despite his repeated pleas—captured in a now-viral video where he can be heard saying, “Farmer ko, sir!”—he was still arrested. Witnesses say he was treated unfairly, with some questioning why such force was necessary.
While some reports suggest he had been drinking, his family defended him, explaining that he was not violent and that alcohol was his way of coping with personal struggles. His brother, former Panglao Vice Mayor Brian Velasco, is calling for a thorough investigation, arguing that the farmer was simply sitting on his motorcycle when officers approached him. He also pointed out that the official version of the events does not match what witnesses saw.
The incident has sparked a conversation about how checkpoint operations are carried out and whether authorities exercise their power with fairness and compassion. While public weapons laws must be enforced, many believe officers should also consider the realities of people’s livelihoods—especially farmers who rely on tools for their daily work.
LTO 7 assured the public that it is taking the matter seriously and that any officer found to have acted inappropriately will be held accountable. The agency vowed to conduct a fair and transparent investigation, recognizing the need to balance law enforcement with empathy and respect for ordinary citizens.
Related Post: Farmer in Bohol ‘Harassed’ and Arrested by LTO Officers for Carrying a Knife