MANILA, Philippines — A former mayor in Cagayan who went viral for making a gas station attendant chase his car for a vlog is now facing a lifetime driving ban, according to the Land Transportation Office (LTO). 

The incident, which sparked outrage online, has led authorities to revoke his license permanently and place his vehicle under alarm.

The LTO confirmed that the ex-mayor, who filmed the stunt along Maharlika Highway in Allacapan, Cagayan, will lose his driver’s license for life. LTO chief Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao said, “Matanggalan siya ng lisensya habang buhay at saka ang sasakyan niya na maalarma at hindi na niya magamit,” emphasizing that the sanction is meant to prevent similar reckless acts.

The video showed a gasoline attendant running after the moving vehicle after it allegedly left without paying for fuel. The clip quickly went viral, drawing widespread condemnation from netizens who criticized the humiliation and danger posed to the worker.

Authorities revealed that the driver was a former politician and mayor, who has since become a vlogger. The LTO issued a show-cause order against him, the driver, and the registered owner of the vehicle. 

Investigators from the LTO’s Intelligence and Investigation Division confirmed that the act was staged for social media content, though the official stressed that such behavior cannot be tolerated.

The ex-mayor later clarified that the incident was scripted for online content, but the explanation did little to ease public anger. Many Filipinos expressed concern over the safety of service workers and the growing trend of dangerous stunts being performed for views.

The lifetime ban marks one of the harshest penalties imposed by the LTO in recent years, underscoring the government’s stance against reckless driving and irresponsible use of vehicles for publicity. Officials said the decision was necessary to protect both road safety and the dignity of workers.

This case highlights the increasing scrutiny of online content creators who stage risky or humiliating acts for engagement. It also serves as a warning that authorities are prepared to impose severe sanctions when public safety and welfare are compromised.

The incident has reignited discussions about responsible vlogging and the accountability of former public officials who continue to wield influence online. For many, the lifetime ban is seen as a fitting consequence for an act that endangered lives and disrespected workers.

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