LTO Cracks Down on Illegal Right-Hand Drive Vehicles in Davao
The Land Transportation Office (LTO), supported by local police forces, launched a raid on three auto supply stores in Davao City. This operation targeted the illegal importation and assembly of right-hand drive motor vehicles, a practice strictly prohibited by law.
LTO chief Assistant Secretary Vigor D. Mendoza II emphasized that these raids are part of an intensified campaign against illegal right-hand drive vehicles after a similar successful operation in Quezon City last month. He identified the stores raided on May 21 as JP Malik Trucks and Equipment Corp., Mahar Motor Surplus Corp., and Umar Japan OPC.
“This is part of our sustained operations since the raid we conducted in Quezon City last month against these kinds of illegal activities. We are conducting an investigation and charges will be filed,” Mendoza said.
Illegal Right-Hand Drive Vehicles and Legal Basis
The three motor vehicle surplus shops lack LTO accreditation as importers, rebuilders, and dealers of right-hand drive vehicles. Intelligence reports further revealed that employees at these stores were involved in backyard rebuilding of such vehicles.
Mendoza clarified, “The importation of right-hand drive motor vehicles is also illegal itself.”
This crackdown is anchored on Republic Act 8506, which bans the registration and operation of vehicles with the steering wheel on the right side on any public or private roads. The law explicitly prohibits any person from importing, registering, or operating right-hand drive vehicles on highways or streets.
Seizure Details and Ongoing Investigations
During the raids, LTO personnel confiscated 42 right-hand drive vehicles stored at Umar Japan OPC. Additionally, one right-hand drive vehicle from Mahar Motor Surplus Corp. and two right-hand drive trucks from JP Malik Trucks and Equipment Corp. were seized.
Authorities continue to investigate the extent of illegal activities and prepare to file charges against those involved.
For more news and updates on illegal right-hand drive vehicles, visit Filipinokami.com.
