LTO-7 overhauls personnel amid corruption reports

A major overhaul of personnel in its Region 7 office is being implemented by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) as a measure in response to reports of corruption and misconduct within its regional operations, with officials launching a full investigation to be conducted within two weeks.

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The measure also includes the removal of enforcement personnel and officials confirmed to be engaging in corrupt practices, along with a two-week comprehensive assessment ordered under a directive from Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Giovanni Lopez.

In a press conference on March 16, LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao conveyed that the office has long been receiving reports of alleged corruption among employees and officials of the regional office, prompting intervention from the central office.

"Hindi kasi pupwedeng magtanggal ka lang ng head o sumunod sa kanya, kundi tingnan din yung buong personnel kung kailangan. Kasi number one dito, yung serbisyo eh," said Lacanilao.

He said that senior enforcers who did not undergo reshuffling have longstanding familiarity with local operations, which he linked to potential involvement in corruption.

"Ang tagal na nila dito, so may familiarity na sila doon sa baba. Dyan na pumapasok yung corruption, kotong. So kami, wipe out lahat. Palit ng bago," he said.

He stated that the reorganization aims to address corruption complaints within the region, particularly in Cebu, and will be replicated in other regions where similar issues are reported.