DOJ and DOTr collaborate to intensify crackdown on illegal transport operators

Cracking Down on Illegal Transport Operators DOJ and DOTr Join Forces

In a significant effort to enhance enforcement and impose tougher penalties for violators, the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Transportation (DOTr) have announced a joint campaign to crack down on illegal transport operators, also known as colorum operations.

According to DOTr Acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez, the agency has been working closely with the DOJ to address the proliferation of unregistered and unauthorized transport services. We sent a letter to Justice OIC Fredderick Vida requesting support about three weeks ago, and we held a meeting at Malacañang a month ago, Lopez said. The president's directive is to intensify the anti-colorum drive.

Lopez emphasized that colorum operations harm legitimate transport operators and endanger drivers and passengers. These vehicles often bypass roadworthiness inspections and do not have insurance. If we fail to curb the widespread colorum operations, the risks to our passengers and motorists are significant, he warned.

The Power of Collaboration

This joint effort between the DOJ and DOTr demonstrates the power of collaboration in tackling a pressing issue. By working together, they can pool their resources and expertise to achieve a common goal ensuring public safety on our roads.

Upholding the Rule of Law

DOJ Senior Deputy State Prosecutor Deana Perez stressed the importance of upholding the rule of law and prosecuting offenders. We have laws, and we follow them. We will thoroughly cooperate with the DOTr, LTFRB, and legal transport operators to pursue those who violate the law, she said.

Severe Penalties for Violators

Perez highlighted the severe penalties outlined in Republic Act 11659, or the Public Service Act, for colorum operators. Those found operating without proper authorization face imprisonment ranging from six years and one day up to 10 years, she said.

Targeting Syndicates and Organized Groups

The DOJ's approach focuses on building strong cases before filing in court, targeting syndicates and organized groups behind colorum operations. This shows that the government is committed to going after the root causes of this problem rather than just the symptoms.

Public Education and Amnesty Program

DOTr Acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez outlined the government's plan to complement enforcement with public education. We will launch a public information campaign in December and an amnesty program in January, he said. This demonstrates that the government is committed to not only punishing violators but also educating the public on the importance of complying with regulations.

Coordination and Case Preparation

DOJ Senior Deputy State Prosecutor Deana Perez confirmed that the interagency task force will coordinate closely with the Public Attorney's Office Coordinating Council to ensure effective case preparation and prosecution of violators. This demonstrates the level of coordination and cooperation required to tackle this issue effectively.

In conclusion, the collaboration between the DOJ and DOTr is a crucial step in intensifying the crackdown on illegal transport operators. By working together, they can ensure that public safety on our roads is prioritized, and those who violate the law are held accountable. The government's commitment to upholding the rule of law, targeting syndicates and organized groups, and educating the public will help to bring an end to this problem once and for all.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.