The Land Transportation Office-Negros Island Region (LTO-NIR) has intensified its operations against colorum or unauthorized public utility vehicles (PUVs) across Negros Island, warning commuters of safety and insurance risks when using illegal transport services.
The agency has recorded additional apprehensions in recent operations as part of its campaign against unauthorized public transportation, LTO-NIR Officer-in-Charge Regional Director Jeck Conlu said on Monday, Nov. 9.
“We should not wait for another accident to happen before we take action,” Conlu said, citing previous accidents involving colorum vehicles that resulted in fatalities.
He warned that passengers using unauthorized transport services may have limited or no insurance protection in the event of an accident.
Conlu also said vehicle owners could face financial liabilities because insurance policies may not cover accidents involving private vehicles used for unauthorized public transport operations.
The agency emphasized that colorum vehicles operate outside the government’s regulatory system, raising concerns about vehicle roadworthiness, compliance with transportation requirements, and passenger safety.
LTO-NIR encouraged operators of unauthorized vehicles to secure the necessary franchises and permits to legalize their operations.
Commuters were also advised to use only legitimate and authorized public utility vehicles to ensure better protection while traveling.
LTO-NIR said it would continue intensified enforcement operations against colorum vehicles throughout the region.*
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