LTO Region 7 appoints first woman to lead regional law enforcement unit
Traffic law enforcement has long been a field dominated by men, and that includes the Land Transportation Office (LTO). In Central Visayas, that picture is slowly changing.
LTO Region 7 has named Atty. Geralgin Balatucan as the first woman to lead its Regional Law Enforcement Service (RLES). She recently led a major enforcement operation along V. Rama Avenue in Cebu City together with the region’s law enforcement team.
The operation also saw several newly hired female enforcers deployed in the field, showing that more women are beginning to take on frontline responsibilities within the agency.
Before her assignment to LTO Region 7, Atty. Balatucan worked at the agency’s Central Office in Quezon City, where she served as Executive Assistant at the Office of the Assistant Secretary in 2025. According to LTO Region 7, the appointment clearly shows that positions in the organization are earned through ability, training, and performance, not gender.
While traffic enforcement has traditionally been viewed as a man’s job, more women are proving they can handle the same responsibilities. From directing operations and enforcing traffic laws to dealing with motorists in difficult situations, they carry the same authority and undergo the same training as their male colleagues.
In many cases, their calm approach, communication skills, and attention to detail can help ease tense encounters without compromising enforcement.
LTO Region 7 Director, Atty. Wendel Dinglasan, said the appointment recognizes the growing contribution of women in public service and encourages more of them to pursue careers in law enforcement. LTO Region 7 also added that it plans to open more opportunities for qualified personnel to take on leadership and operational roles as it continues its road safety programs across Central Visayas.
