LTO officials removed over karaoke lounge assault

Two officials from the Land Transportation Office (LTO) in Region II have been permanently removed from their positions following allegations of physical assault on a minor and another individual at a karaoke lounge.

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon ordered the immediate relief of Assistant Regional Director Manuel Baricaua and Chief Enforcer Charles Ursolum after viewing video footage showing them assaulting a 15-year-old male and reportedly another person who was not identified by name but is believed to be a 20-year-old male companion.

Dizon has written to the Office of the President seeking the permanent removal of Baricaua, emphasizing that there is no justification for such behavior and noting that video evidence was sufficient reason for their relief from duty.

The officials were involved in an incident during which they allegedly assaulted a minor and another person after being refused by a 20-year-old female singer who declined their advances at the karaoke lounge.

LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Vigor Mendoza II confirmed that both officials have been issued a notice to explain, but did not refute the events captured on video, leading to their permanent removal from their positions.

Dizon instructed LTO Assistant Secretary Vigor Mendoza II to assist the victims in filing charges for physical assault against Baricaua and Ursulum.