• THERESA MAE DULMAN
A towing operation and checkpoint along San Juan Street in Barangay Sum-ag, Bacolod City, resulted in 22 vehicles impounded by the Bacolod Traffic and Transport Management Department (BTTMD) Aug. 27.
Of those impounded, 15 were colorum tricycles operating without permits, five electric bicycles cited for traffic violations, and two single motorcycles.
BTTMD head, Atty. Reuben Mikhail Sabig, said Aug. 28 that the enforcement strictly targets unauthorized public transport, regardless of whether operators have pending permit renewals or lack a franchise entirely.
“Our intention is to apprehend colorum vehicles regardless of whether you failed to renew your permit or never had a franchise in the first place,” he stressed.
There are TODA members who were unable to renew because their franchises expired this year, preventing them from renewing their business permits. Out of over 200 members, only 79 appear on our list as renewed, Sabig added.
“My explanation to them remains clear: as long as you have not renewed your permit, we will consider you colorum,” he said.
He noted that several drivers have since renewed their permits following prior notices, but emphasized that enforcement will continue for non-compliant operators. | TMD
