Operators rush to avoid higher road fines

CEBU, Philippines - Owners of almost 300 units of trucks for hire applied for franchise with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board –7 yesterday, the first day of the implementation of higher fines for colorum vehicles.

Acting Transportation Development Officer Reynaldo Elnar said drivers or operators may be fined P200,000 if the vehicle is found in the street without franchise and required permits.

The LTFRB defines colorum operators as unlicensed operators of public transport services that are not complying with its franchises or certain permits.

The Department of Transportation and Communications’ Joint Administrative Order  2014-01 or the Revised Schedule of Fines and Penalties for Violations of Laws, Rules and Regulations Governing Land Transportation covers the new penalty scheme including the fines for colorum vehicles.

Under the JAO, colorum bus operators will be fined P1 million; truck and van operators, P200,000; sedan operators, P120,000; jeepney owners, P50,000; and motorcycle operators, P6,000.

The JAO also covers refusal to render service to the public or convey passenger to destination, overcharging/undercharging of fare, operating the unit/s with defective parts and accessories, pick and drop of passengers outside the terminal, carrying of illegal and/or prohibited cargoes, trip cutting, failure to display fare matrix, insolent, discourteous or arrogant drivers, among others. Each violation has corresponding penalties and fines.

Land Transportation Office-7 Asst. Regional Director Alita Pulga said LTO and LTFRB are the only ones allowed to apprehend violators.

“Usa sad sa reason nga gipatas-an ang multa is, nidaghan ang disgrasya tungod sa dili kompleto nga parts and accessories, apil pod ang attitude sa mga driver,” she said.

Pulga said the office is prepared to enforce the new rates and the space for impounded vehicles is ready. Still, she is hopeful that operators will comply with the rule.

“Kung hatagan ta ni og positive nga panghuna-huna, benefit gyod ni sa mga legal nga drivers and operators. Ang magproblema ang colorum operators gyod,” she said.

A massive information campaign to let colorum operators apply for franchise and work as legal operator will continue to be undertaken. (FREEMAN)