LTO probes illegal terminal in QC

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) is looking into reports that a privately owned parcel of land is being used as a terminal for jeepneys, FX taxis, and colorum vehicles plying various routes outside Metro Manila.

"The LTO enforcement unit is now conducting an investigation" upon orders of Assistant Secretary Reynaldo Berroya, LTO spokesman Odin Deseo said.

The terminal, located close to the LTO impounding area near the intersection of EDSA and Quezon Avenue, is reportedly operatated by retired and active military and police personnel.

Since the terminal sits on private land, LTO enforcers cannot apprehend the drivers unless they emerge from the compound. The LTO enforcers, according to reports, are also reluctant to confront the drivers of colorum vehicles because they are often seen bearing sidearms.

Legitimate operators have expressed concern for the safety of passengers riding in colorum vehicles because they are not covered by insurance in case of accidents.

According to sources, the terminal charges P25 per vehicle, but it is not known where the money goes because no receipts are issued.

They said the property was rented from a private land holding firm that owns a 10-hectare property in the area.