BINI’s Mikha Lim apologizes, surrenders license after viral distracted driving video

ASM, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
November 12, 2026

Photo courtesy: Philippine News Agency

MANILA, Philippines — BINI member Mikha Lim has publicly apologized for using her cellphone while driving after a viral livestream prompted an investigation by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and a 90-day preventive suspension of her driver’s license.

The 22-year-old P-pop singer acknowledged her mistake in a statement posted on X on November 11, describing her actions as careless and irresponsible.

“There is absolutely no excuse for using my phone while behind the wheel,” Lim wrote, adding that she takes full responsibility for the incident.

Her apology followed growing criticism over footage from a livestream on November 9, which showed her using her cellphone while operating a moving vehicle.

Screenshot from BINI Mikha’s official X account

The controversy began when clips from Lim’s livestream circulated on social media, raising concerns about road safety.

In the footage, the singer appeared to be recording herself while driving. At one point, she was seen holding her cellphone with both hands, leaving the steering wheel unattended.

Her phone also fell during the livestream. Rather than pulling over to a safe location, Lim appeared to bend down to retrieve the device while the vehicle was still moving.

The incident drew criticism from social media users, who questioned the risks posed by using a cellphone behind the wheel.

The LTO subsequently received reports and complaints about the video, prompting the agency to investigate the singer’s actions.

LTO orders license suspension

Following its initial review, the LTO issued a show-cause order against Lim on November 11, requiring her to explain her actions.

The agency cited possible violations of Republic Act No. 10913, or the Anti-Distracted Driving Act, along with reckless driving and being an improper person to operate a motor vehicle.

The singer was initially directed to appear before the LTO’s Intelligence and Investigation Division in Quezon City on November 20 and submit a sworn explanation with supporting documents.

However, Lim voluntarily appeared at the LTO Central Office on November 11, accompanied by her manager, ahead of the scheduled hearing.

She surrendered her driver’s license, which was placed under a 90-day preventive suspension while the investigation continues.

LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao confirmed that Lim acknowledged her mistake and expressed regret during her visit.

Lacanilao also emphasized that traffic laws would be enforced equally, regardless of a driver’s popularity or public status.

Mikha vows to be more responsible

In her public apology, Lim confirmed that she had already reported to the LTO and would undergo the appropriate legal process.

She described the incident as an important lesson about being more careful and responsible on the road.

“This has been a big lesson for me to be much more mindful, disciplined, and responsible moving forward,” she said.

Lim also acknowledged the importance of traffic regulations, emphasizing that road safety rules exist to protect everyone.

“I promise to learn from this and do better,” she added.

Under the Anti-Distracted Driving Act, motorists are generally prohibited from using mobile communication devices for activities such as texting, making handheld calls and other distracting functions while operating a moving vehicle.

Violations can result in fines, with more serious penalties for repeated offenses.

The investigation into Lim’s actions remains ongoing. Her license suspension is a preventive measure pending the outcome of the LTO proceedings, rather than a final determination of all alleged violations.