LTO suspends license of Skyway-speeding driver

Jeffrey Roxas-Chua, the driver of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evo that wove in and out of the presidential convoy at high speed, according to the PSG. Photo courtesy of the PSG

MANILA - The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has suspended for 3 months the license of a driver who cut and overtook the convoy of President Benigno Aquino III on the Skyway last April 14.

The Presidential Security Group (PSG) earlier said that Roxas-Chua first tried to overtake the vehicle of the Presidential Communication Operation Office (PCOO), forcing the driver to slow down and give way.

Roxas-Chua continued to swerve in and out of the presidential convoy until he reached the President's car and overtook it.

He was then flagged down and issued a violation ticket for reckless driving by a South Luzon Expressway (SLEx) traffic enforcer.

Roxas-Chua drove at speeds of around 180 kilometers per hour, according to the PSG.

The speed limit on the Skyway is 100 kph maximum for cars, jeeps and pick-ups; 80 kph maximum for buses and trucks; and 60 kph minimum for all vehicles.

Roxas-Chua was meted a P1,000 fine, which he needed to settle within 15 days.

However, he only paid the fine last Wednesday, according to the LTO.

Aside from a suspended driver's license, Roxas-Chua will also have to undergo a seminar and an examination, the LTO said.

After the incident, Roxas-Chua had allegedly said: "Kay President pala kayo ha. Ganyan pala. Humanda ka pag nanalo si Binay at Erap, ipatatanggal kita."

Both Vice President Jejomar Binay and Manila Mayor Joseph Estada, however, denied knowing Roxas-Chua. -- with a report from Jacque Manabat, ABS-CBN News