LTO probes 40 offices in ‘technical carnapping’ of seized vehicles

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has launched an investigation into 40 of its district offices allegedly involved in the illegal transfer of ownership of motor vehicles confiscated during police operations.

The move comes in line with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify the crackdown on government-related corruption and illegal activities.

LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Vigor Mendoza II said he would issue a notice to explain to the heads of the 40 district offices following confirmed intelligence reports on what the Philippine National Police (PNP) described as “technical carnapping.”

The scheme, uncovered through coordination between the LTO and PNP, revealed that certain district offices had been processing unauthorized Cancellation of Transfer of Ownership requests and issuing fraudulent documents.

“We’ve already informed DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon, and his instructions are clear: identify the culprits and file airtight criminal and administrative charges,” Mendoza added.

He warned that those found liable will face charges of grave misconduct under civil service rules and violations of LTO Memorandum Circular No. MC-91-137 and the LTO Citizen Charter, which could lead to dismissal from service.

According to LTO data, the illegal transfers were most prevalent in the CARAGA region (15 cases), followed by Region 9 (eight), Region 2 and Region 11 (four each), Regions 1, 3, and 10 (two each), and one each in Region 4A, Region 8, and the Cordillera Administrative Region.

So far, 40 vehicles have been identified in the initial investigation, and show-cause orders will be issued to the newly registered owners.

“We will leave no stone unturned. We have zero tolerance for illegal activities, and we will make sure all those involved are punished,” Mendoza said.