The Land Transportation Office (LTO) 7 has mandated a 90-day preventive suspension of the driver's license belonging to 21-year-old Sean Andrew Pajarillo. This action follows a tragic hit-and-run incident that resulted in the death of young businessman Kingston Ralph Cheng on Sunday, February 8, 2026.
Details of the Fatal Incident
In an official statement, LTO 7 disclosed that Pajarillo first collided with a parked Toyota Vios near One Paseo shortly after midnight. Instead of stopping, he fled at high speed, subsequently striking Cheng, who was walking along Paseo Saturnino Road in Barangay Banilad. The impact propelled Cheng against a nearby utility pole. Pajarillo continued to flee until his vehicle overturned inside Maria Luisa Subdivision along Paseo Eulalia.
Legal Violations and Agency Actions
An order dated Monday, February 9, from LTO 7 indicates that Pajarillo is facing potential violations of Section 48 for reckless driving. The agency has declared him unfit to hold a driver's license under Republic Act 4136, the Land Transportation and Traffic Code of the Philippines. Additionally, LTO 7 asserted in a press statement that Pajarillo was driving under the influence of alcohol or dangerous drugs, contravening RA 10586, the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013.
Contradiction with Police Reports
This assertion conflicts with police reports, which state that Pajarillo was sober during the incident. Lieutenant Colonel Jose Los Baños, spokesman for the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO), cited hospital records showing a negative alcohol result from medical findings. Pajarillo remains under hospital arrest while receiving treatment for injuries sustained. Police are preparing charges of reckless imprudence resulting in homicide and damage to property.
Upcoming Hearing and Compliance Orders
LTO 7 has scheduled a hearing for February 17 at its Operations Division on N. Bacalso Avenue in Cebu City. Pajarillo has been directed to appear and submit a written explanation to show cause why his license should not be suspended or revoked. It was noted that he failed to present a valid driver's license at the time of his apprehension last Sunday and has been ordered to immediately surrender his license to LTO 7.
Official Reminders on Road Safety
LTO 7 Officer-in-Charge Director Francisco Franz Ranches Jr. emphasized the importance of caution and responsibility on the road. He stated, Road safety is everyone's responsibility. We urge all drivers to strictly follow traffic rules, drive defensively, and always remain alert and sober behind the wheel. A moment of recklessness can result in irreversible tragedy. Ranches added that the agency will enforce the full force of the law against motorists who endanger public safety through reckless and irresponsible driving.
