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Advocates Philippines
Lifetime Ban Ordered On Van Driver In Deadly CLLEx Crash After Positive Drug Test
Photo credit: PH Red Cross
Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon has ordered the perpetual revocation of the driver’s license of a van operator involved in the tragic crash along the Central Luzon Link Expressway (CLLEx), which claimed the lives of five people and injured eight others.
The move comes in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to hold reckless drivers accountable and ensure the safety of commuters and road users across the country.
From 90-Day Suspension to Lifetime Ban
Following the accident, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) initially issued a 90-day preventive suspension on the license of the driver, identified as John Paul Baptista Martin, and directed both him and the registered vehicle owner, Ma. Lourdes Burgos Picardal, to appear before the agency to explain their side.
However, new findings revealed that Martin tested positive for illegal drugs after undergoing testing by the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Tarlac. This, coupled with his reckless driving that led to multiple fatalities, prompted the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to enforce the harshest penalty available: a lifetime ban from driving.
The Deadly Incident
According to the PNP’s report, the accident occurred around 8:00 a.m. in Barangay Balingcanaway, Tarlac City. Martin allegedly lost control of the Hyundai H100 shuttle van, which rammed into the perimeter fence before crashing onto the road.
Four passengers were declared dead on arrival at the Tarlac Provincial Hospital, while another was pronounced dead at Jecson Medical Center. The rest of the passengers sustained injuries and were immediately rushed to nearby hospitals.
Accountability for Both Driver and Vehicle Owner
The LTO has also summoned the van’s registered owner to answer for possible administrative liability. The agency emphasized that both the driver and the vehicle owner bear responsibility, not only for compliance with traffic laws but also for ensuring the safety of their passengers.
As of now, the van and Martin’s license remain under “alarm status,” which prevents any transactions while the case is under investigation.
A Firm Warning to Other Drivers
Secretary Dizon stressed that the decision sends a clear message: the government will not hesitate to impose severe penalties on drivers who endanger lives, especially those found under the influence of illegal substances.
“This action is not only about accountability for one incident—it is about protecting the public and making our roads safer for everyone,” he said.
The move comes in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to hold reckless drivers accountable and ensure the safety of commuters and road users across the country.
From 90-Day Suspension to Lifetime Ban
Following the accident, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) initially issued a 90-day preventive suspension on the license of the driver, identified as John Paul Baptista Martin, and directed both him and the registered vehicle owner, Ma. Lourdes Burgos Picardal, to appear before the agency to explain their side.
However, new findings revealed that Martin tested positive for illegal drugs after undergoing testing by the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Tarlac. This, coupled with his reckless driving that led to multiple fatalities, prompted the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to enforce the harshest penalty available: a lifetime ban from driving.
The Deadly Incident
According to the PNP’s report, the accident occurred around 8:00 a.m. in Barangay Balingcanaway, Tarlac City. Martin allegedly lost control of the Hyundai H100 shuttle van, which rammed into the perimeter fence before crashing onto the road.
Four passengers were declared dead on arrival at the Tarlac Provincial Hospital, while another was pronounced dead at Jecson Medical Center. The rest of the passengers sustained injuries and were immediately rushed to nearby hospitals.
Accountability for Both Driver and Vehicle Owner
The LTO has also summoned the van’s registered owner to answer for possible administrative liability. The agency emphasized that both the driver and the vehicle owner bear responsibility, not only for compliance with traffic laws but also for ensuring the safety of their passengers.
As of now, the van and Martin’s license remain under “alarm status,” which prevents any transactions while the case is under investigation.
A Firm Warning to Other Drivers
Secretary Dizon stressed that the decision sends a clear message: the government will not hesitate to impose severe penalties on drivers who endanger lives, especially those found under the influence of illegal substances.
“This action is not only about accountability for one incident—it is about protecting the public and making our roads safer for everyone,” he said.
Aug 18, 2025
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