LTO tells public: Don’t bribe traffic enforcers

AN LTO ENFORCER flags down a pickup without a license plate on Edsa in Cubao, Quezon City, during the implementation of the agency’s “no plate, no travel” policy. INQUIRER file photo / LEO M. SABANGAN II

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Office (LTO) on Thursday appealed to the public not to offer bribes or any form of monetary consideration to traffic enforcers.

The LTO also urged the public to honor the authority of its enforcers when they are pulled over for traffic or road safety violations.

“Offering bribes to our law enforcers will not get you anywhere and will make things worse. Wala pong tiwali kung walang mag-uudyok na maging tiwali. Magtulungan po tayo [There is no corruption if there is no one encouraging corruption. Let’s work together],” LTO chief Jose Arturo “Jay Art” Tugade said in a statement.

The appeal stemmed from an incident in Sorsogon City where LTO Region 5 law enforcement officers apprehended a driver of a van while conducting roadside assistance and inspection as part of activities related to “Oplan Ligtas Biyaheng Pasko 2022.”

Enforcers discovered that the van was being used to transport 17 passengers from Northern Samar to Cubao, which is a clear violation as it engaged in a “colorum” operation.

“Colorum” is used to refer to vehicles operating “for hire” without an approved franchise.

However, as enforcers were about to issue a Temporary Operator’s Permit (TOP) to complete the apprehension, the driver approached them and tried to hand him three P1,000 bills.

The enforcers, however, recorded him with their phone, prompting the driver to grab the money back and walk away. The enforcers arrested the driver and brought him to the nearest Philippine National Police station for bribery.

“The entire LTO and myself laud the actions of our noble traffic enforcers for refusing to accept the alleged bribery attempt, for standing firm in enforcing the law and not be tempted by acts of corruption. They are exceptional public servants that should be emulated by everyone,” Tugade said.

Tugade likewise thanked LTO Region 5 Assistant Regional Director Vince Nato for his swift action and all his efforts to ensure that the law is enforced.

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JPV