Firefighters responding to a reported blaze in Barangay Alijis were delayed after a motorcycle rider blocked a responding fire truck, despite repeated horn blasts and shouted warnings from personnel, authorities said.
The Bacolod City Fire Station said the obstruction occurred while firefighters were rushing to the scene of the fire. Because of the delay, the house involved was eventually completely destroyed by the flames.
A video of the incident circulated online, showing the fire truck attempting to move forward as the rider remained in front of the emergency vehicle. Fire personnel could be heard repeatedly signaling for the rider to give way.
The Land Transportation Office–Negros Island Region said its investigation found that the rider was not the registered owner of the motorcycle and did not possess a valid driver’s license. The rider was identified as a call center agent.
Following the incident, the LTO-Negros Island Region issued a show-cause order to both the registered owner of the motorcycle and the rider seen in the video. Authorities said the order requires them to explain why they should not face penalties under existing traffic regulations.
Officials also reiterated provisions of the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, particularly Sections 49(b) and 50, which require motorists to yield immediately to emergency vehicles such as fire trucks and ambulances responding to emergencies.
Authorities stressed that failure to give way to emergency responders can result in serious consequences, including delays that may lead to loss of property. They again urged motorists to follow traffic laws and prioritize emergency vehicles at all times.
