The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) issued a show cause order Monday against a franchise applicant for allegedly operating a public utility vehicle while their application was still pending.

The order follows reports that the applicant was picking up passengers along the Alabang–Imus route using a delivery van that had been illegally modified for public transport.

LTFRB chairperson Vigor D. Mendoza II issued a stern warning to other applicants against using vehicles for public transportation before the official approval and release of permits.

“Just because you submitted the documents required for a Certificate of Public Convenience does not mean you can already use the vehicle for public transportation,” Mendoza said.

“Common sense dictates that you still have to wait for approval and release of the necessary permits,” he added.

Under the show cause order, the applicant must submit a written explanation as to why the franchise application should not be canceled. The individual is also required to appear at an initial hearing on 18 February.

Mendoza likened the practice to “colorum” — the local term for unauthorized public transport — and maintained that the act is illegal under Philippine law. He noted that while the agency understands the need for citizens to earn a living, it cannot come at the expense of road safety or legal regulations.

He also stressed that the board is acting on directives from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to strictly enforce safety rules within the national transportation network. Despite the violations, he assured that the agency would follow due process and hear the driver’s side during the upcoming hearing.