LTO Transportation Officer Jerome Rodriguez confirms that some drivers become complacent with the Pakiusap System, a scheme used to escape from liability linked to traffic violations. 

“Masyado tayong nanghawak doon sa tinatawag na pakiusap system. Kasi po, nagkakaroon po ng entitlement ‘tong ibang driver na pwede namang paki-usapan,” he said

[“We have relied too heavily on the so-called “Pakiusap System.” This creates a sense of entitlement among certain drivers, leading them to believe that they can simply negotiate,”]

Violators are reportedly resorting to the Pakiusap System to avoid being ticketed.

However, if the favor was not given, they would make violent reactions towards the enforcer or on social media.

“May mga driver tayo na kapag hindi napaki-usapan, nagkakaroon ng violent reaction, nagkakaroon ng mga violent comments, even ‘yong iba pino-post pa sa social media pero they are disregarding the fact na lumabag sila.” 

[“We have some drivers whose favor was not given, they’ll have violent reaction, violent comments, some will post on social media, but they are disregarding the fact that they violated.”]

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) admitted that the system for getting a driver’s license was easier in the past.

“Noong mga unang panahon, napakadaling kumuha ng lisensya, napakaraming nakakuha ng lisensya na hindi naman talaga qualified,”

[“Before, it was easy to get a license. Many get the license even though they are not actually qualified.”]

The LTO is currently working to distinguish drivers who are holding a license despite lacking necessary qualifications, such as passing the theoretical and practical examinations.

Rodriguez further stated that individuals who are confirmed unqualified will face a show-cause order and investigation.

With reports from Benedict Samson