LTO strengthens rules vs. Fixers

CEBU, Philippines - The Land Transportation Office (LTO) is intensifying its campaign against fixers through strict implementation of rules and proper dissemination of information.

LTO 7 Director Raul Aguilos said they are trying their best to reduce and eventually eliminate fixing throughout all district offices in the province.

Aguilos said fixing common among government agencies especially in offices involved in frontline services. He stressed they are making reforms to drive fixers away.

One strategy, he said, is not to allow proxies or people getting a license or clearance for another person. He said the person concerned should be the one to apply and process his papers and requirements.

The director said they already coordinated with the Philippine National Police (PNP) about this matter. In fact, he added, they have filed administrative cases against regular staff members caught accepting payments ‘under the table’ to hasten the processing and releasing of licenses or clearances.

He added that they immediately dismissed from service some attendants who have done this, as well as conducted entrapment operations against fixers. The public should be patient in processing their papers.

As of now, his office is practicing the “No Noon Break” policy set by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) to serve more clients.

The LTO 7 serves more than 2,000 persons daily.

They are posting signages, streamers, and posters concerning the disadvantages of fixing to inform the public about the trouble they may get in dealing with fixers.

He said the public should not trust fixers, as the LTO recorded countless accounts of fixers running away with the money.

Last 2009, a memorandum of agreement was forged among the CSC, the Department of Justice, the Presidential Anti-Graft Commission, PNP, and the National Bureau of Investigation to create the Task Force Anti-Fixers.

The task force is tasked to entrap and prosecute fixers. Its creation was pursuant to Republic Act No. 9485 or the Anti-Red Tape Act (ARTA) of 2007 to underscore the government’s resolve in fighting fixers. (FREEMAN)