LTFRB to review policy for ‘colorum’ vehicles

MANILA, Philippines - The Land Tranportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will undertake a review of its controversial Joint Administrative Order 2014-01, particularly its provisions on violations connected to the operation of “colorum” public utility vehicles, an official said yesterday.

LTFRB chair Winston Ginez said he has tasked board member Ariel Inton to head the panel to review the controversial policy, which deals with unregistered and out-of-line public utility vehicles. 

Before a recent pre-plenary hearing of the LTFRB’s 2015 budget at the House of Representatives, Ginez announced the appointment of Inton before solons, non-government organizations, transport leaders and other stakeholders strongly opposing the JAO.

Inton vowed to strictly observe the principles of transparency, good governance and public accountability in undertaking a review of the policy. 

“We expect to fine tune and reconcile all the provisions and come up with a new JAO acceptable to all stakeholders to protect the riding public and ensure their comfort and convenience,” Inton said. 

While the JAO has been questioned before the Supreme Court, Inton said the review will not violate the sub judice rule since it will not touch on issues raised by the SC. 

The JAO was issued to increase the fines and penalties for violations of laws, rules and regulations governing land transport.  

It was issued by the LTFRB, the Land Transportation Office and the Department of Transportation and Communication on June 2 and took effect on June 17. 

Critics and oppositors have sought the intervention of the SC for the nullification of the JAO for supposedly being unauthorized, unreasonable and unconstitutional.