LTO, PCG join forces vs car smuggling

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Land Transportation Office (LTO) have joined forces in the fight against smuggling of vehicles as well as other illegal activities in sea and ports. The bilateral effort was sealed on Tuesday with the signing of the memorandum of agreement (MOA) by LTO chief Alberto Suansing and PCG commandant Vice Admiral Wilfredo Tamayo at the PCG headquarters in Manila. Under the MOA, the LTO tapped the resources and personnel of the PCG as part of intensified drive against the smuggling of vehicles and other forms of illegal activities in the country. “The LTO could now utilize the PCG’s 54 stations, 194 detachments and estimated 5,000 personnel,” said Tamayo. Suansing admitted that the LTO has limited manpower and resources to strictly monitor and suppress the transport of unregistered vehicles or those with expired registration via ferry service. As part of their preparations to carry out the new additional tasks, the PCG personnel would undergo various orientation and training seminars to familiarize themselves with the LTO rules and regulations particularly on the identification of necessary documents needed in the transport of vehicles. Tamayo said once they are familiarized with the regulations, they would then be deputized by the LTO to apprehend persons found smuggling cars. The PCG, in return, would submit its report to the LTO. - GMANews.TV