I-ACT apprehends 244 road unworthy PUVs

MANILA, Philippines — The Inter-Agency Council for Traffic (I-ACT) apprehended 244 public utility vehicles (PUVs) during the first day of the full implementation of the ‘Tanggal Bulok, Tanggal Usok’ campaign to flag down road unworthy public transport in compliance with the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) last Wednesday.

The council said in a statement Thursday that it apprehended 200 PUVs with defective parts and accessories and 44 smoke belching vehicles.

The drivers were given 24 hours to get their units undergo roadworthiness check at the Land Transportation Office (LTO).

Failure to pass the roadworthiness test consists of body (appearance), engine, lights, brakes, tires, horn, battery and smoke will result in the suspension of the franchises of PUVs.

I-ACT will be strictly enforcing on road inspection of public transport vehicles, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Undersecretary for Roads and Infrastructure Tim Orbos said.

During the dry-run last Monday, some 255 smoke belchers, dilapidated vehicles, and public utility vehicle drivers not wearing uniform were apprehended.

The I-ACT is composed of the DOTr, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), LTO and the PNP- Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG).-Aerol John Pateña/PNA