THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Saturday warned private owners against using their vehicles for utility without the proper permits.
Acting LTFRB Chairman Greg Pua Jr. said legitimate operators brought the issue to the board, which was later confirmed through its own investigation.
According to the investigation report, owners of private motor vehicles — including trucks and vans — are illegally serving online e-commerce marketplaces and shopping platforms as transport, logistics and delivery providers.
“This is a fair warning to all those involved in this modus. We have already begun operations against you in coordination with law enforcement agencies. Your only options are to stop or secure the necessary permit for your operation,” Pua said.
Describing the scheme as a form of “colorum” operation, the acting LTFRB chief said it would be unfair to legitimate operators who comply with regulatory requirements and respect existing rules, and the rule of law.
The LTFRB’s Law Enforcement Unit has been directed to intensify anti-colorum operations nationwide, with particular focus on private motor vehicles engaged in unauthorized truck-for-hire services through online e-commerce marketplaces and shopping platforms, according to Pua.
He said that securing a certificate of public convenience or a valid authority issued by the LTFRB is not merely a regulatory requirement but a road safety measure since motor vehicles used for this purpose must undergo roadworthiness inspections.
The initiative aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to enforce fair rules and regulations that safeguard the interests and welfare of those in the transport sector, the top LTFRB official told The Manila Times.
Pua noted that such illegal services violate a joint administrative order and are punishable by impounding of the unit and a fine of up to P200,000 per unit.
He also said this type of operation, under the Public Service Act as amended by Republic Act 11659, requires ownership and control by Filipino citizens, in accordance with the constitutional limitation of 60:40 percent ownership.
Violations of this type carry harsher penalties, including imprisonment of six years and one day to 12 years, a fine not exceeding P2 million, or both, the LTFRB said.
“Let us make our country a better place to do business. And it starts with complying with the rules and regulations,” Pua said.
