BOHOL is moving to strengthen efforts against illegal transport operations by creating a multi-agency Provincial Anti-Colorum Task Force.
The guidelines were formally submitted by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board Regional Field Office VII (LTFRB RFO 7) to Gov. Aris Aumentado to curb the proliferation of illegal transport operations in the province.
In a letter dated December 5, LTFRB Regional Director Eduardo Montealto Jr. said the guidelines were transmitted following a meeting with the Provincial Government of Bohol (PGBh) on November 11, where both parties recognized the urgency of addressing unlicensed or “colorum” transport operations.
The “Guidelines for the Task Force on the Apprehension of Colorum Operations in Bohol” is intended to serve as the framework for an Executive Order by the PGBh that will institutionalize a strengthened, multi-agency task force.
Aligned with PGBh’s Strategic Governance Roadmap, the guidelines will support legal, safe, and properly regulated transport service operations.
Moreover, the proposed task force seeks to ensure commuter and tourist safety, protect legitimate transport operators, and enhance Bohol’s image as a tourism-friendly destination.
It will be chaired by the governor or his authorized representative and will be co-chaired by a designate from LTFRB 7, LTO 7, or the Provincial Administrator’s Office.
Member agencies include LTFRB RFO 7, LTO 7, PNP Bohol, PNP-HPG 7, DILG Bohol, the Bohol Provincial Tourism Office, Provincial Legal Office, and other concerned LGUs and agencies.
Furthermore, the guidelines outline the legal bases, objectives, composition, and operational procedures of the task force, covering intelligence gathering, joint enforcement operations, apprehension and impoundment protocols, and sustained monitoring and evaluation.
“Thank you very much Governor, for your continued leadership and partnership in advancing lawful, secure, and commuter-centered transportation across the province,” Montealto wrote.
LTFRB RFRO VII reaffirmed its commitment to provide technical support as the province prepares the Executive Order, underscoring a shared goal of a safer, more organized, and commuter-centered transport system in Bohol, a UNESCO Global Geopark. (RTB)
