THE LAND Transportation Office (LTO) ordered a nationwide crackdown against “colorum” or illegally operating public utility vehicles (PUVs). Authorities have long been struggling with this long-standing problem that threatens the safety and well-being of the public.
Unregistered and unregulated vehicles have plagued our roads for decades, creating a myriad of problems ranging from road accidents to unfair competition with legitimate operators. It is high time that we address this issue comprehensively. These rogue operators have found a niche in the public transportation system, offering seemingly cheaper fares while evading the responsibilities and regulations that come with legal operation. This has created a complex web of problems.
Colorum PUVs often lack proper maintenance, safety features, and driver training, putting passengers at risk. This contributes significantly to the high rate of road accidents. With no oversight or regulation, colorum operators face no consequences for poor service, overloading, or reckless driving.
Also, legitimate public transport operators are forced to compete with colorum vehicles that can undercut their prices due to lower operating costs, as they avoid taxes, insurance, and maintenance expenses.
The government itself loses substantial revenue from these illegal operations, which could otherwise be used to improve public transportation infrastructure and services.
Addressing the colorum problem requires a multi-pronged approach, involving government agencies, law enforcement, and the public. Government agencies such as LTO and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board must enhance their enforcement efforts. Regular checkpoints, surveillance, and penalties for colorum operations should be intensified.
A comprehensive public awareness campaign should educate citizens about the dangers of using colorum PUVs and encourage them to choose registered and regulated transportation options.
The government should consider, too, simplifying the registration process for PUVs to make it more accessible and affordable for operators. This can incentivize more operators to go legitimate. Also, provide incentives and support to operators who transition from colorum to legitimate operations, such as reduced registration fees and access to training programs.
The colorum public utility vehicle problem affects the safety fairness, and economic stability of the country. It is essential that we take immediate and comprehensive action to address this problem and create a safer, more efficient, and regulated public transportation system. By strengthening enforcement, raising public awareness, and providing incentives for legal operation, we can move towards a safer future for all on the road.
