160 Medical Clinics Face Closure for Non-Appearance Issuance
At least 160 medical clinics nationwide are on the brink of closure for their alleged involvement in the non-appearance issuance of medical certificates. These certificates serve as mandatory requirements when applying for a driver’s license at the Land Transportation Office (LTO). This troubling modus operandi directly threatens road safety across the country.
LTO chief Assistant Secretary Vigor D. Mendoza II confirmed that they will pursue criminal and administrative charges against everyone involved. “Our DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon also ordered us to run after the physicians whose signatures appear in the non-appearance medical certificates,” Mendoza said.
Show Cause Orders to Be Issued This Week
This week, all 160 clinics will receive show cause orders demanding explanations for their actions. Mendoza emphasized the danger of this scheme, noting that issuing driver’s licenses without proper medical checks compromises road safety.
The problem surfaced after Mendoza received reports about medical certificates being issued without the applicant actually showing up. He then ordered a full investigation by the agency’s intelligence operatives.
“It appears that even if a person would not show up in the clinics, for as long as he is willing to pay, could be issued with medical certificates. This is illegal and we assure the public that we will run after these people,” Mendoza stated.
Road Safety at Risk Due to Illegal Certificates
The modus operandi clearly bypasses essential medical evaluations for driver’s license applicants. Without proper medical exams, unfit drivers might be granted licenses, endangering public safety. Mendoza has instructed regional directors to collect all questionable medical certificates issued by these clinics.
Those who obtained driver’s licenses through dubious certificates will be summoned to explain their cases.
“If evidence warrants, we will revoke the accreditation of these medical clinics and impose a lifetime ban against them for any transaction with the LTO in the future,” Mendoza added.
This crackdown underscores the LTO’s commitment to uphold strict standards in licensing processes and safeguard Filipino roads.
For more news and updates on medical clinics and driver licensing, visit Filipinokami.com.