The Land Transportation Office (LTO) MIMAROPA Regional Office has filed a criminal complaint against a driver of a colorum van for violating the Public Service Act, as part of a nationwide campaign to combat illegal vehicle operations.

The complaint, filed under Section 18 in relation to Section 24 of Commonwealth Act No. 146, as amended by Republic Act No. 11659, stems from a targeted operation conducted by the LTO MIMAROPA Law Enforcement Unit against colorum vehicles.

During the operation this week, a Toyota Hi-Ace Commuter van with plate number VAC 1324 was intercepted by LTO officers, who found it transporting eight passengers without the requisite authority or permit from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

The passengers, who originated from various locations in Oriental Mindoro and were bound for destinations in mainland Luzon, had paid fares ranging from P1,500 pesos to P6,000 pesos. 

The driver admitted to engaging in unauthorized colorum operations and was issued a Temporary Operator’s Permit (TOP) for the violation.

The vehicle has been impounded and will remain in custody pending a court order for its release.

In a statement, LTO MIMAROPA said they will ensure public safety, upholding the rule of law and enforcing transportation regulations.

The crackdown is part of a nationwide campaign spearheaded by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the LTO, under the leadership of Secretary Jaime J. Bautista and Chairman of the Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation (SAICT) Vice Chairman Assistant Secretary Jose “Tracker” Lim IV.