LTFRB Targets Unauthorized Public Vehicles in Northern Mindanao

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board’s new regional chief in Northern Mindanao (LTFRB-10) has committed to intensifying efforts against unregistered public utility vehicles (PUVs), commonly referred to as “colorum.” LTFRB-10 Director Abosamen Matuan, in a media briefing on Wednesday, declared a crackdown on these unauthorized operators following an upswing in their activities across the region.

According to Philippines News Agency, Matuan, who took office in late October, emphasized the need to bolster the workforce of enforcers to effectively manage the situation. The transition into the new leadership sees the regulatory body grappling with limited personnel on the ground, a situation Matuan plans to address by hiring additional staff for field duties. This move is in response to the operational demands with currently only seven field officers in active duty.

The LTFRB’s central office has allocated a budget of PHP14.6 million for Region 10 for the current year, earmarking PHP4 million specifically for personal services. This funding is expected to enhance the regulatory board’s capacity to enforce transportation laws and diminish the prevalence of “colorum” PUVs in the area, safeguarding the integrity of regulated transport services.