The Land Transportation Office–National Capital Region (LTO-NCR) on Tuesday reminded the public not to patronize colorum vehicles, especially when traveling to the provinces for the Holy Week break.

The advisory was issued following a safety inspection conducted on Monday at the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) by the LTO-NCR in coordination with the Department of Transportation (DOTr). The inspection was led by DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon, LTO-NCR Regional Director Roque I. Verzosa III, and PITX Licensing Branch Chief Mercynita B. Paras-Covarrubias.

Colorum refers to unregistered or unauthorized public utility vehicles operating illegally. Verzosa warned that these vehicles pose serious safety risks to commuters and violate transportation regulations.

“Operating colorum vehicles is a direct threat to public safety. They do not undergo proper inspections and are not covered by insurance, making them dangerous options for travelers,” Verzosa said.

The LTO-NCR outlined four key reasons to avoid colorum vehicles:

• Public Safety: These vehicles fail to meet safety standards, putting passengers at risk.

• Lack of Accountability: Operators often evade government regulations, taxes, and safety checks.

• Unfair Competition: Colorum operations undermine legally registered public transport services.

• Legal Penalties: Offenders face vehicle impoundment and heavy fines.

The agency urged the public to report suspected colorum activity and reminded travelers to only board registered vehicles to ensure safe and lawful travel during the Semana Santa exodus.