By Benjamin Cuaresma
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) in Northern Mindanao has intensified its campaign against illegal public transport operators by launching a “Mystery Rider” program that recruits undercover informants to help identify and bring down “colorum” public utility vehicles (PUVs) across the region.
The initiative, unveiled Friday by LTFRB-10 Regional Director Alexes Joseph Bendijo, enlists legitimate PUV drivers and selected individuals to discreetly monitor suspected illegal transport operations and submit verified information that can be used in enforcement actions.
To encourage wider public participation, the agency is offering cash rewards to informants whose reports directly lead to successful apprehensions and enforcement operations.
“The Mystery Rider program strengthens our drive to eliminate illegal transport services through community participation and credible intelligence,” Bendijo said, expressing confidence that the initiative will help protect commuters while safeguarding the livelihood of legitimate franchise holders.
Authorities said the campaign targets unregistered and unauthorized PUVs that continue to operate despite government regulations, exposing passengers to safety risks and creating unfair competition for legally franchised operators.
The new strategy forms part of LTFRB’s broader effort to tighten regulatory enforcement and restore order in the region’s public transportation sector.
Bendijo also confirmed that Green GSM’s electric taxi fleet is preparing for commercial operations in El Salvador City, with services expected to cover destinations throughout Northern Mindanao once regulatory concerns are resolved.
He said the company has yet to announce an official launch date as discussions continue with existing taxi operators that have raised concerns over the entry of the new transport service.
The electric vehicles remain stationed at Green GSM’s depot in Barangay Taytay, El Salvador City, pending the start of operations.
Push for Cleaner Public Transport
The LTFRB said the rollout of electric taxis supports the government’s modernization agenda under Republic Act No. 11697, or the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act, which promotes cleaner and more sustainable transportation nationwide.
Northern Mindanao has been allotted 500 electric taxi franchises, with Green GSM already securing 300 units. The remaining 200 franchises are still available, and the LTFRB is encouraging qualified transport operators to participate in the region’s transition to environmentally friendly public transportation.
Officials said the simultaneous crackdown on illegal PUVs and expansion of electric taxi services underscores the government’s commitment to building a safer, fairer, and more modern public transport system for Northern Mindanao.
ia/xf
