The Land Transportation Office (LTO) issued a Show Cause Order (SCO) to a Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) marked vehicle last week after it was caught on video illegally using the EDSA Busway. However, further inspection revealed that the vehicle was also operating with mismatched license plates.

According to LTO, it launched a formal investigation after footage surfaced online showing the MMDA-marked SUV driving through the dedicated bus lane. After cross-referencing the displayed registration numbers with official databases, LTO investigators found that the plates belonged to an MMDA utility vehicle, not the Toyota Fortuner using them.

After the issuance of the SCO, MMDA General Manager, Retired Police General Nicolas Torre III, voluntarily surrendered the marked patrol vehicle to the LTO Central Office. The SUV remains in LTO custody while administrative proceedings are underway. Besides impounding the unit, the agency has already placed the vehicle under alarm status and suspended the driver’s license of its assigned operator pending the outcome of the inquiry.

As part of due process, the LTO Intelligence and Investigation Division (IID) formally summoned the designated driver and agency representatives to a hearing scheduled for September 4, 2026. The driver must submit a sworn explanation addressing why administrative penalties should not be imposed for Disregarding Traffic Signs, improper use of number plates, imitation, and false representations. The driver also faces proceedings to determine whether they should be declared an Improper Person to Operate a Motor Vehicle, which could result in the revocation of their driving privileges.

Respondents are required to present the original vehicle documentation during the hearing, including the Certificate of Registration (CR) and Official Receipt (OR), along with proof of authority regarding the plate assigned to the SUV.

LTO Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao reiterated that government enforcement markings do not grant immunity from traffic regulations, emphasizing that state-owned vehicles must strictly adhere to the same laws expected of the general public. The agency continues to encourage citizens to document traffic violations and submit reports through its dedicated I-Report Mo Kay LTO Chief portal.

Edit: We sought comment from the MMDA before this story was published. The agency’s response was received after publication. The MMDA said:

“Please be informed that this matter is currently under investigation by the LTO. The MMDA is awaiting further details and the results of the investigation.”