Monday, June 09, 2008 LTO strengthens drive vs dishonest emission testing centers
THE Land Transportation Office (LTO) has intensified its campaign against unscrupulous acts committed by some private emission testing centers (PETCs).
Leandro Mendoza Jr., transportation regulatory officer of the LTO Operations Division said cameras are now installed in every PETC to ensure all vehicles tested are processed according to strict government measures.
Mendoza said some PETCs have been issuing certificates to vehicle owners even without undergoing the emission testing. An emission test is needed before a vehicle's registration is renewed.
The installation of web cameras, he said, will minimize the conduct of such illicit activities. The webcams installed in emission testing centers are interconnected with the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC).
Mendoza said there is no available data on how many emission testing centers are issuing certificates to operators even without the conduct of testing, but he said majority engage in the dishonest acts.
There are around nine PETCs in the region with Baguio having the most number.
Vehicles are being required to undergo emission tests to determine if the smoke emanating from the vehicle pass the standards as required under the Clean Air Act.
From January to May this year, Mendoza reported the LTO has apprehended 186 vehicles violating provisions of the clean air law. From this apprehension, 162 were settled while 24 are still pending.
He said the lack of LTO personnel bugs the implementation of the law, which is conducted in the region through roadside apprehensions. (JC)
