LTO moves against colorum vehicle over overcharging complaint

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has issued a Show Cause Order against the owner and driver of a privately owned Toyota Avanza after a viral social media post accused them of operating as a colorum vehicle, overcharging passengers, and failing to complete an agreed trip.

According to the LTO, the incident stemmed from a Facebook post by the page Byaheng Manila to Bicol Door to Door, which detailed the experience of a woman and her child who boarded the vehicle at the Goa Terminal in Camarines Sur for a direct trip to North Caloocan. The two reportedly agreed to pay P2,000 for the service, including their belongings.

However, upon reaching Cubao, Quezon City, the driver allegedly dropped them off and demanded additional payment, claiming the destination was not part of the original agreement.

LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Markus V. Lacanilao said such incidents undermine public trust and violate existing rules meant to protect passengers. He reiterated the agency’s warning against illegal transport operations, unauthorized fare increases, and refusal to complete contracted trips.

Following the incident, Lacanilao ordered the issuance of a Show Cause Order requiring both the vehicle owner and the driver to submit sworn statements to the LTO Intelligence and Investigation Division at the central office. They were also directed to appear at a hearing scheduled on 12 January 2026 to explain why they should not be penalized.

The respondents were instructed to justify their alleged refusal to complete the agreed route, the imposition of additional charges without prior discussion, and the use of a private vehicle for public transport without authorization from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board—an offense considered colorum operation.

They were likewise ordered to explain why the driver’s license should not be suspended or revoked, as the case may warrant a finding that the driver is an “improper person to operate a motor vehicle.” All vehicle documents are required to be presented during the hearing.

Pending the outcome of the investigation, the Toyota Avanza has been placed under alarm status, while the driver’s license has been suspended for 90 days and must be surrendered to the LTO before the scheduled hearing.

The LTO warned that failure to submit the required explanation will be construed as a waiver of the right to be heard, and the case will be resolved based on the agency’s available evidence.