The Philippine National Police–Highway Patrol Group on Monday reported that it has impounded three Isuzu trucks carrying an estimated 75 tons of frozen meat during an anti-carnapping and plate-spotting operation in Sta. Maria, Bulacan over the weekend.

PNP-HPG Director Hansel Marantan said the operation was conducted by mobile patrol personnel of the Regional Highway Patrol Unit 3 while enforcing Republic Act No. 10883, or the New Anti-Carnapping Act of 2016; Republic Act No. 4136, or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code; and Presidential Decree No. 96, which covers the use of proper plates and registration compliance.

The operation was carried out along Gov. Fortunato Halili Road, where three trucks were flagged down and later impounded due to various traffic and registration violations.

The first Isuzu truck, bearing plate number CCB 7627, was cited for non-wearing of seatbelt and failure to carry the official receipt. Another truck, with plate number CBJ 5161, was cited for non-wearing of seatbelt by both the driver and passenger and for being an unregistered motor vehicle. The third truck, bearing plate number CBP 1065, was cited for violation of PD 96, non-wearing of seatbelt, and failure to carry the certificate of registration.

During inspection, the drivers disclosed that the trucks were transporting frozen boneless pork products with a combined estimated weight of around 75 tons. However, they were unable to present the necessary documents to establish the legality and provenance of the cargo at the time of inspection.

Verification through the HPG Vehicle Information Management System confirmed that the engine and chassis numbers of the vehicles were not listed under the nationwide alarm or stolen vehicle database as of the time of checking.

The impounded trucks were placed under the custody of the concerned HPG unit for further investigation, documentation and proper disposition, and were endorsed to the investigation section for appropriate action.

Marantan stressed the importance of strict enforcement of traffic and motor vehicle laws.

“Our intensified operations are aimed not only at recovering carnapped vehicles but also at preventing the use of undocumented and improperly registered motor vehicles on public roads. Compliance with traffic and registration laws is essential to public safety and accountability,” Marantan said.

The PNP-HPG also reminded motorists and transport operators to ensure that their vehicles, cargo and documents are complete and compliant with existing laws to avoid penalties and operational disruptions.