I-ACT starts apprehension of smoke belching, dilapidated PUVs

I-ACT personnel apprehends some 255 smoke belchers, dilapidated vehicles, and public utility vehicle drivers on Monday as part of the “Tanggal Bulok, Tanggal Usok” campaign. (Photo courtesy of DOTr/PNA photo)

MANILA — Some 255 smoke belchers, dilapidated vehicles, and public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers not wearing uniform were apprehended as the Inter-Agency Council for Traffic (I-ACT) started Monday the “Tanggal Bulok, Tanggal Usok” campaign which aims to flag down road unworthy public transport in compliance with the PUV Modernization Program (PUVMP).

In a statement, I-ACT said that as of 2:05 p.m. Monday (January 8), a total of 123 smoke belchers, 130 vehicles with defective parts and accessories and two drivers not wearing proper uniform were apprehended.

The I-ACT is composed of the Department of Transportation (DOTr), Land Transportation Office (LTO), Highway Patrol Group (HPG), Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and various traffic enforcement units of Metro Manila local government units (LGUs).

“This is basically a warning shot. If after a day we catch them again, then we shall already issue summons to them, leading possibly to suspension if not cancellation of their licenses, and franchises if their explanations would be unsatisfactory,” I-ACT communications head Elmer Argano said in a text message to reporters.

The council said it would strictly enforce on-road inspection of public transport vehicles. “All public transport that we see not road worthy will be stopped and will be issued a subpoena for them to undergo the Motor Vehicle Inspection System (MVIS),” DOTr Undersecretary for Roads and Infrastructure Tim Orbos.

Pilot areas for the campaign include EDSA, Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon Avenue, and Marcos Highway.

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