The Land Transportation Office (LTO) announced on Tuesday that vehicles impounded for operating illegally as public utility vehicles, known as “colorum,” cannot be released without a court order, even if the fines have been paid by the owners.
LTO Chief Vigor Mendoza II emphasized the seriousness of combating the use of colorum vehicles, stating that the agency has intensified its nationwide anti-colorum campaign. He clarified that only the judiciary has the authority to order the release of these impounded vehicles.
“The illegal operation of colorum vehicles in our country has been a long-standing problem. We need to implement a heavier punishment to show to the people, who continue to violate the law, that our government is serious about putting an end to their modus operandi,” Mendoza stated.
The term “colorum” refers to private vehicles that operate without the necessary permits from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), often to make a profit.
While these vehicles are typically found in rural and remote areas, recent reports suggest a significant rise in their numbers within Metro Manila and nearby regions.
In response, Mendoza has issued a directive to all regional directors, district office heads, and unit chiefs to promptly file criminal charges following any successful anti-colorum operations.
He also cautioned that LTO officials could face administrative sanctions if they fail to pursue these cases diligently.
“Pending the criminal case, the unit should not be released without a court order as the vehicle is part of the evidence of the crime. Releasing the vehicle is tantamount to infidelity in the custody of evidence,” Mendoza stressed.
