LTO-6 anti-colorum drive nets three vans

By Gerome Dalipe and Jennifer P. Rendon

An intensified anti-colorum drive in Iloilo has led to the apprehension of three vans, including two illegal “car-for-rent” units in Iloilo City and another colorum van intercepted in Guimbal, authorities said.

The latest operation was conducted by the Regional Law Enforcement Section led by Deputy Chief Relin Reyes during a surprise roadside checkpoint along Benigno S. Aquino Jr. Avenue in Mandurriao, Iloilo City.

LTO-6 law enforcers flagged down a Nissan Urvan registered as a private vehicle but found it transporting 11 passengers without a franchise.

A second unit, a Toyota Hi-Ace, was also intercepted with nursing students on board who admitted paying PHP 2,200 for the trip.

The operation followed the interception of another van a day earlier in Guimbal, Iloilo.

Reports said the van was traveling from San Jose, Antique, to Iloilo City when it was flagged down at a checkpoint in Barangay Sta. Rosa-Laguna, Guimbal.

The Guimbal-bound operation found 12 passengers on board, including one minor, who were supposed to be dropped off at Mohon Terminal in Arevalo, Iloilo City.

The Land Transportation Office in Western Visayas said the Guimbal vehicle was tagged as colorum after authorities found that it had no valid franchise to operate.

LTO-6 said the recent interceptions were part of its sustained enforcement drive across Western Visayas.

LTO-6 Regional Director Gaudioso P. Geduspan II said the increase in violations points to what authorities believe is an organized scheme targeting unsuspecting vehicle owners.

“They entice owners of private vans to join so-called rental groups under the guise of legitimate business,” Geduspan warned.

He said these operators bypass the franchise required by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board.

Geduspan said what may appear to be a business opportunity is actually a legal trap that places both operators and passengers at risk.

Under LTFRB Memorandum Circular No. 2024-038, which took effect Oct. 10, 2024, previous exemptions for certain car-rental arrangements were removed, and private vehicles used for hire are now required to secure franchise authority.

Geduspan also warned that joining illegal transport schemes offers no protection from penalties.

In 2026 alone, LTO-6 recorded 19 apprehensions involving colorum vehicles in Western Visayas.

Authorities have repeatedly cautioned the public against using colorum vehicles, saying these operate without proper franchise authority and may expose passengers to safety and liability risks.