CARTOON BY: AARON PAUL C. CARIL
EDITORIAL
Questionable apprehension: Law enforcement
or grave abuse of authority?
A recent incident in Panglao, Bohol, involving personnel from the Land Transportation Office (LTO) Region 7 sparked public outrage and raised serious questions about the agency’s enforcement procedures. A video circulating online shows LTO employees apprehending a man on his motorcycle in what appears to be a questionable manner.
The incident occurred in Barangay Tawala, Panglao, on February 28, 2025. The video depicts LTO personnel forcing the man off his motorcycle, with the man shouting that he is a farmer. News reports say that the man was merely transporting agricultural tools, a common practice for him as he tills land in the area.
The public criticized the LTO’s actions, questioning the manner of apprehension. The viral video on Facebook shows an excessive use of force as the man, allegedly armed only with a knife, was punched and dragged by a group of LTO field officers.
In response to the public outcry, LTO 7 Director Glenn Galario issued a press statement expressing regret for the incident and announcing the suspension of all law enforcement operations in Bohol pending a full investigation. Galario assured that any officer found to have acted outside of protocol would be held accountable. Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado has also intervened and contacted LTO 7 Director Glenn Galario regarding the incident. The Sangguniang Panlalawigan summoned the task force involved in the incident and called for personnel to be pulled out of Bohol.
While the LTO is mandated to enforce traffic laws and regulations, this incident highlights the need to examine their operational procedures critically. Several issues warrant attention:
Use of Force:The video suggests the possible use of excessive force during the apprehension. Law enforcement officers are expected to use reasonable force necessary for effecting an arrest, but the level of force used in this instance appears disproportionate to the situation.
Authority and Expertise:Questions have been raised about the LTO’s authority to apprehend individuals for offenses seemingly unrelated to traffic violations. It is important to clarify the scope of the LTO’s enforcement powers and ensure that personnel are adequately trained to identify and address relevant violations.
Transparency and Accountability:The incident underscores the public’s right to know the procedures followed during apprehensions and to seek redress if they believe their rights have been violated. This right is a cornerstone of our democracy and must be upheld in all law enforcement operations.
Public Image:As an agency that ubiquitously represents the government and engages with the public daily, it is in the agency’s interest to improve the image of its agents in the public eye.
The LTO’s prompt response in suspending operations and launching an investigation is a welcome step. However, a thorough and impartial inquiry is essential to determine the facts of the case and identify any procedural shortcomings. The investigation should also address the need for enhanced training programs for LTO personnel, emphasizing de-escalation techniques, respect for citizens’ rights, and adherence to proper enforcement protocols.
This incident reminds us that public office is a public trust, and all government officials and employees must be accountable to the people. The LTO must take concrete steps to ensure that its enforcement activities are conducted with professionalism, transparency, and respect for the rights of all citizens. More importantly, those LTO personnel found to have violated the rules of engagement must be held accountable and be meted with appropriate penalties, be it administrative, civil, or criminal. This is crucial for maintaining public trust in our law enforcement agencies.