Manila, Philippines — The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has summoned the driver of a sedan after a viral video showed him stopping in the middle of the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) to allow a passenger to pick up a dead animal from the road.

The incident, which occurred on February 26, was captured on video and widely shared on social media, prompting the LTO to issue a show-cause order against the driver. 

Authorities stressed that while some may view the act as compassionate, it posed serious risks to other motorists traveling at high speeds on the controlled-access highway. 

“This act, though seen by some as compassionate, posed serious risks to incoming vehicles,” the LTO said in its official statement.  

Under Philippine traffic regulations, stopping on expressways is strictly prohibited except in emergencies, as sudden halts can endanger lives and disrupt traffic flow. Expressways are designed for continuous movement, with minimum speed limits of 60 kilometers per hour and maximum limits of 100 kilometers per hour.  

The LTO reminded drivers that adherence to traffic laws is essential to maintaining safety on high-speed roads. The agency is now evaluating the driver’s explanation and warned that penalties may be imposed depending on the findings of the investigation.  

The case has sparked debate online, with some netizens praising the passenger’s concern for animals, while others criticized the dangerous decision to stop on an expressway. Authorities reiterated that compassion must never compromise road safety, and proper channels should be followed when dealing with incidents involving animals on highways.