Transportation office warns of fake taxi franchises

THE Land Transportation Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and the Land Transportation Office (LTO) officials warned the public to be keen in buying vehicle franchises.

Regional Director Celina Claver revealed there are lots of fake or unregulated franchises being sold in the region nowadays. She warned the public to verify first the franchise with the agency before executing a deed of sale.

She expressed franchises are worth hundreds of thousands and do not come cheap.

Meanwhile, officials also warned the community on the rampant fake driver’s licenses. Officer–in–Charge of the Baguio Licensing Center Engr. Lalaine Sobremonte revealed they were able to confiscate around 10 fake licenses this year.

The agencies also monitor the existence of some ‘colorum’ vehicles, especially in the rural areas. Chief of the LTO Operations Robert Pocais said they apprehended 150 ‘colorum’ vehicles in 2011.

In January to September 2012, Pocais said there were 97 vehicles apprehended, adding that some apprehended operators are now suspended while some cases are still pending.

Pocais added violations for the first, second and third times will be penalized for suspensions of three months, six months and one year, respectively. He stated if the driver exceeded the third warning, he will be provided with heavier penalties.

Drivers are advised to follow the rules and regulations of the road to avoid penalties and accidents.