Content creator Cherry White's license suspended over viral reckless driving video

• Cherrylyn Larga Gonzaga, known as content creator Cherry White, has received a 90-day preventive driver's license suspension from the LTO for irresponsible driving

• The suspension stems from a widely circulated video depicting Gonzaga driving with one leg raised onto the driver's seat, appearing disengaged from proper vehicle operation and raising road safety concerns

• Gonzaga has been issued a Show Cause Order, requiring her to explain her actions at the LTO Central Office on July 16, 2025, and surrender her license to begin the suspension period

• Both the DOTr and LTO reaffirmed their commitment to strict enforcement against irresponsible driving, aligning with the President's directive for safer roads, especially given the content creator's public influence

A content creator known as Cherry White, whose real name is Cherrylyn Larga Gonzaga, has had her driver's license preventively suspended for 90 days by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) due to a viral video depicting her engaged in irresponsible driving.

The decision, announced by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and LTO officials, emphasizes the government's commitment to road safety and accountability for all motorists, especially those with significant social media influence.

The controversy stemmed from a video that circulated widely online, showing Gonzaga driving in what the LTO described as a "casual or lounging posture."

Specifically, she was seen with one leg raised onto the driver's seat, appearing significantly disengaged from proper vehicle operation.

This behavior raised immediate concerns among authorities and the public, as it posed a clear danger to herself and other road users.

LTO Acting Assistant Secretary Atty. Greg Pua Jr. underscored the seriousness of the situation, noting that such a display from a personality with a large social media following could be misinterpreted as acceptable driving practice, potentially encouraging dangerous imitation.

Following the viral video, the LTO issued a Show Cause Order (SCO) to Cherrylyn Larga Gonzaga.

The order directed her to explain why she should not be held liable for being an "Improper Person to Operate a Motor Vehicle" under Section 27(a) of Republic Act 4136 (the Land Transportation and Traffic Code), in addition to charges of reckless driving.

She has been summoned to appear at the LTO Central Office in Quezon City on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at 11 a.m., to provide her formal explanation.

Furthermore, the SCO mandated her to surrender her driver's license before the scheduled hearing, which will officially commence the 90-day preventive suspension period.

The vehicle involved in the viral video has also been placed under alarm, preventing any transactions while the investigation is ongoing.

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon reiterated the DOTr and LTO's firm stance against irresponsible driving.

He stated that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has repeatedly emphasized the importance of keeping roads safe for everyone, adding, "We do not tolerate irresponsible and reckless driving."

The LTO's swift action in this case aligns with the President's directive to hold errant motorists accountable.

The incident has sparked widespread discussion on social media, with many netizens commending the LTO for its prompt response.

While some comments on online platforms simply noted the humor in the situation, the majority expressed approval of the authorities' strict enforcement, citing the potential dangers of such driving behavior.

The public reaction underscored a collective call for greater road discipline, irrespective of an individual's online popularity.

The LTO continuously reminds all motorists that possessing a driver's license comes with a significant responsibility to drive safely and adhere to traffic laws, emphasizing that actions endangering lives will not be tolerated.

News, photos, or videos that arouse the interest of netizens would often go viral on social media, due to the attention netizens give them. These viral posts appeal to the emotions of netizens, and in rare cases, this could also happen to ordinary people, making them very relatable.

In other news, UP has issued a condemnation on the "senseless" killing of student Sophia Coquilla in Tagum City, calling it a loss of a promising young leader. The university urged authorities to swiftly investigate the case and hold those responsible accountable. “We demand justice for Sophia,” UP declared, emphasizing the need to protect lives and ensure community safety. Coquilla, 19, was found with 38 stab wounds; three minors have been arrested, while one suspect remains at large.

Still in other news, a man has been apprehended in Rodriguez, Rizal, for allegedly breaking into a local convenience store and stealing over P5,000 worth of cigarettes and chocolates. The alleged thief gained entry by breaching the store's ceiling, and CCTV footage played a vital role in identifying and tracking the suspect, leading to his arrest. Despite the suspect's denial, police confirmed he has previous complaints for theft lodged at the barangay level, indicating a history of similar alleged offenses. The apprehended individual is now formally facing charges of robbery, with authorities having recovered some of the stolen merchandise.

Source: KAMI.com.gh