LTO Suspends BINI Mikha Lim’s Driver’s License Over Phone Use While Driving

 

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has suspended the driver’s license of BINI member Mikha Lim following the circulation of videos showing her using a mobile phone while driving, an incident that has reignited public discussions about road safety and responsible driving.

The controversy began after clips from a livestream uploaded on Weverse spread across social media. In the footage, the 23-year-old singer was seen recording herself singing inside her vehicle while operating her phone. One particularly concerning moment showed her taking both hands off the steering wheel to type on her device while the car remained in motion.

She also appeared to lose track of her route, later realizing that she had missed a turn.

Viral Footage Triggers Public Outcry

The videos prompted widespread criticism, with concerned motorists and social media users questioning the risks posed by distracted driving. Several users tagged the LTO and urged the agency to investigate the incident, stressing that even a brief lapse in attention could result in a serious accident.

Criticism also centered on the responsibilities that come with public visibility. BINI members have represented the Philippines as tourism ambassadors, prompting some users to argue that public figures should demonstrate responsible behavior, particularly when their actions could influence younger audiences.

Others expressed frustration over what they perceived as fans attempting to remove or suppress copies of the livestream rather than addressing the safety concerns raised by the footage.

The discussion extended beyond the artist herself, with many emphasizing that traffic regulations should apply equally to celebrities and ordinary motorists.

What Philippine Traffic Laws Say

The incident raised questions about possible violations of two Philippine traffic laws: Republic Act No. 10913, or the Anti-Distracted Driving Act, and Republic Act No. 4136, or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code.

Under RA 10913, motorists are prohibited from using mobile communication devices to perform activities such as sending messages, making calls, and browsing the internet while driving. The restriction also applies when a vehicle is temporarily stopped at a red traffic light.

The law aims to prevent distractions that interfere with a driver's ability to monitor road conditions, respond to hazards, and maintain control of a vehicle.

Meanwhile, Section 48 of RA 4136 prohibits reckless driving. It states that motorists must operate vehicles with reasonable caution, taking into account road conditions, traffic, visibility, weather, and other circumstances that could affect public safety.

Driving in a manner that places other motorists, pedestrians, or property at risk may constitute reckless driving.

These provisions underscore a fundamental principle of road safety: operating a vehicle requires continuous attention and control. A moving car can cover a considerable distance within seconds, making even seemingly brief distractions potentially dangerous.

LTO Takes Action Against the Singer

Following the public backlash, Mikha appeared before the LTO to address the incident. The agency subsequently suspended her driver's license in connection with her use of a mobile phone while driving.

The enforcement action reinforces the government's position that traffic safety regulations must be observed regardless of a driver's popularity or public profile.

The case also follows a similar incident involving television host Ian Red, who was summoned by the LTO the previous month over footage showing him driving without a seatbelt and briefly removing his hands from the steering wheel while the vehicle was moving.

Both incidents highlight the need for consistent compliance with traffic regulations, particularly among individuals whose actions receive considerable public attention.

Ultimately, road safety is not a matter of celebrity status, online popularity, or the length of time a driver looks away from the road. Every moment of distraction creates unnecessary risks for everyone sharing the highway.