MANILA — The Land Transportation Office (LTO) on Wednesday confirmed that the son of vlogger James Deakinwas apprehended for reckless driving after making an illegal lane change on Skyway Stage 3 and for operating an unregistered vehicle.

At a press briefing in Quezon City, LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao explained that the driver attempted to enter a Skyway exit improperly by crossing a double solid line, causing temporary congestion.

“Missing your exit does not give you the right to violate clear traffic control markings,” Lacanilao said, stressing that the vehicle’s sales invoice was from the importer to the dealer, meaning it was not yet registered for road use.

The LTO clarified that the violations were administrative in nature. Reckless driving becomes a criminal offense only if it results in injury or property damage. The driver also had a temporary operator’s permit (TOP) allowing five days to contest the violation, which they did not utilize.

In response to Deakin’s allegations of inflated charges and difficulties settling the PHP2,000 fine during the holidays, Lacanilao explained that traffic tickets must be settled within 15 calendar days from apprehension and that the LTO was closed on Dec. 27, when Deakin reportedly attempted to settle the case.

To ensure transparency and public trust, Lacanilao also ordered a thorough investigation into Deakin’s complaint of alleged irregularities in the processing of his son’s driver’s license. LTO personnel implicated in the incident have been temporarily suspended while the investigation is ongoing.

As part of the probe, the LTO has requested CCTV footage from Skyway Corporation to determine whether the traffic apprehension followed proper procedure.

The LTO emphasized its commitment to integrity, accountability, and institutional reform, assuring the public that any confirmed violations or lapses will be addressed promptly in accordance with the law.

“Mahalaga ang puna at opinyon ng publiko sa pagtukoy ng mga bahagi ng aming mga proseso na maaaring higit pang pagbutihin upang mas mahusay na mapagsilbihan ang sambayanang motorista,” Lacanilao said.