LTO probes district offices over ‘technical carnapping’ allegations

MANILA: The Land Transportation Office (LTO) is currently investigating its district offices after authorities seized alleged illegal transfer of ownership of motor vehicles.

Per the LTO, a coordination meeting was held between the agency and the Philippine National Police, where it was established that some of the former’s regional arms figured in the unauthorized processing of Cancellation of Transfer of Ownership and Duplication of Certificates of Registration, described by the latter as “technical carnapping.”

The modus, LTO Assistant Secretary Attorney Vigor Mendoza II pointed out, involved recovered vehicles being illegally transferred to new owners, with new Duplicate Certificates of Registration issued alongside proper documentation to simulate a valid transfer of ownership.

“We already informed DOTr (Department of Transportation) Secretary Vince Dizon of this modus and his instruction is clear, to identify and ensure that airtight criminal and administrative charges will be filed against those involved in this illegal activity,” Mendoza said.

“We will not let this pass. We will not allow the LTO to be used in illegal activities such as this,” he added.

According to the the country’s land transport bureau, 15 of the illegal transfer of ownership of motor vehicles seized in police operations occurred in CARAGA Region; eight in Region 9; four each in Region 2 and Region 11; two each in Region 1, Region 3 and Region 10; and one each in Region 4A, Region 8 and in Cordillera Administrative Region.

Mendoza will issue a notice to explain to the district office heads, and administrative charges with dismissal penalties (regarded as misconduct under Civil Service and LTO Memorandum Circular Number MC-91-137 dated June 6, 1991; and violation of the LTO Citizen Charter) await those who will be found guilty.

The current owners of the said vehicles will be issued a show cause order, the agency noted.

“We will be issuing show cause orders against the new registered owners of these motor vehicles,” Mendoza commented.

“We also assure the Filipino people that we will leave no stone unturned in this investigation. We have zero tolerance on illegal activities and we will make sure that all those involved are punished,” he explained.

Also read: 

LTO warns public on fake improvised plate authorization letter

LTO imposes stiffer sanctions vs late vehicle ownership transfer

LTO extends deadline against use of temporary, improvised license plates

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