BACOLOD City — The Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) is urging the Philippine National Police (PNP) to strictly and consistently enforce the apprehension of motorized tricycles operating as “colorum” in the city, citing public safety concerns and unfair competition against legitimate operators.
The call followed the approval of a proposed resolution authored by Councilor Dindo Ramos, chairperson of the SP Committee on Transportation and Traffic, during the city council’s regular session on Wednesday.
The resolution emphasized that the Constitution requires public utilities to secure a franchise or certificate to operate, underscoring the need to curb unregulated transport services.
Ramos said the continued operation of unfranchised tricycles undermines the rule of law and places registered drivers—who have complied with licensing and regulatory requirements—at a disadvantage.
He explained that colorum tricycles are not covered by compulsory insurance and other regulatory safeguards, exposing passengers, pedestrians, and motorists to greater risks in cases of accidents, injuries, or property damage.
Ramos also noted that unregulated vehicles evade franchise fees and other lawful charges, depriving the city government of much-needed revenues.
“The city has the duty to protect legitimate tricycle operators and drivers who have complied with franchising requirements and paid the necessary fees and charges,” the resolution stated, adding that illegal transport operations create unfair competition and threaten the livelihood of law-abiding drivers.
The council called on the PNP to coordinate enforcement efforts with the city government and concerned offices, including the Bacolod Traffic and Transport Management Department (BTTMD), to ensure a consistent and effective campaign against colorum tricycles./PN
