Land Transportation Office Seizes 284 Colorum Vehicles in July
MANILA — The Land Transportation Office (LTO) reported the apprehension and impounding of 284 colorum vehicles in July, intensifying efforts to curb illegal public transport operations. This month-long crackdown targeted unauthorized vehicles that pose safety risks to passengers and law-abiding transport operators.
Colorum vehicles operate without registration or proper permits, making them unsafe and uninsured. The LTO’s latest figures reveal a broad range of these vehicles, including tricycles, vans, motorcycles, and even private sedans used illegally to carry passengers.
Breakdown of Seized Colorum Vehicles
According to LTO sources, the 284 units comprise 79 tricycles, 51 motorcycles, 60 vans, 56 trucks, and 16 private sedans illegally transporting commuters. Additionally, 11 passenger jeepneys and 4 buses were also impounded during the operation.
These vehicles often have expired registrations and lack the necessary insurance coverage required for public utility vehicles. This not only endangers passengers but also leaves accident victims without financial protection.
Impact on Legitimate Operators and Public Safety
LTO chief Vigor Mendoza II emphasized the toll colorum vehicles take on the transport sector. “Legitimate transport operators and drivers lose about 30 percent of their daily income due to these illegal vehicles,” he noted. He also warned that operating or driving colorum vehicles is a criminal offense, often resulting in court convictions with fines and jail time.
“We are seeing progress in our goal to eliminate colorum operations,” Mendoza added. However, he urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious vehicles to help authorities sustain these efforts.
Legal Consequences and Public Awareness
Authorities highlighted that colorum operations are punishable by law. Both operators and drivers face penalties that include imprisonment and fines. The LTO continues to work closely with local government units and transportation agencies to enforce regulations and protect commuters.
“These colorum vehicles are not safe for riding because, aside from the issue of road worthiness since many of them have expired registrations, they also do not have insurance, which is one of the requirements for public utility vehicles,” a transport official said.
For more news and updates on colorum vehicles, visit Filipinokami.com.
