Driver faces P.2-M fine over colorum Tripda

MANILA, Philippines - A driver is facing a fine of up to P200,000 for operating a transport network vehicle through online application Tripda without the required permits.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) said yesterday that it has affirmed a board resolution of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) that penalized Rainier Justine dela Paz for operating a colorum vehicle.

“Any (private) vehicle that failed to secure government accreditation is considered ‘colorum’ or unauthorized should it hit the streets; together with other traffic law enforcement agencies, we have no resort but to apprehend them,” LTFRB chairman Winston Ginez said.

Dela Paz was apprehended by LTO enforcers on Aug. 15, 2015 after offering transport services through Tripda without the necessary permit.

He was penalized for violating the LTFRB-LTO Joint Administrative Order 2014-01, which imposed higher penalties for operators and drivers of colorum vehicles.

“All transport network vehicle services that intend to offer public transport services using online-based technology services must meet and comply with the government’s transport law,” Ginez said.

“We have to foremost ensure the convenience and safety of the riding public, as well as prevent more PUVs on the road that would only contribute to traffic congestion,” he added.

The LTFRB has issued accreditations to Uber and GrabCar.