Two officials from the Land Transportation Office (LTO) Region 2 are facing removal from their posts after being caught on video assaulting a 15-year-old minor in an incident that reportedly stemmed from a disagreement involving a female singer.
The incident occurred in Tuguegarao City, where the officials — identified as Assistant Regional Director Manuel Baricaua and Chief Enforcer Charles Ursulum — were seen in a now-viral video slapping and kicking the seated male victim.
Footage also showed a woman trying to intervene, only to be violently pulled by the hair during the altercation.
Another companion of the minor was allegedly also assaulted by the suspects, but that part was not captured on video.
The confrontation reportedly began after the female singer, who was with the group, was refused access to the officials, prompting the violent reaction.
Following public outrage and internal review, LTO has suspended Baricaua as part of its standard operating procedure. Meanwhile, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon has ordered both Baricaua and Ursulum to be relieved of their positions.
The DOTr and LTO Central Office have since reached out to the victims, offering assistance and support should they wish to file formal charges.
Investigations are ongoing, and legal action may follow depending on the outcome of the inquiry.
