Senator wants DOTr, LTO to suspend PMVIC operations

Sen. Ralph Recto seeking suspension of MVIS

Amid rising concerns about the implementation of the Land Transportation Office’s (LTO) new Motor Vehicle Inspection System (MVIS) conducted by Private Motor Vehicle Inspection Centers (PMVIC), another Senator has concerns about the program. This time, the Senator is calling for the suspension of its implementation until a public consultation is held.

Senator Ralph Recto has filed senate Resolution No. 638, which “urges” the Department of Transportation (DOTr), led by secretary, Arthur Tugade, and the LTO led by assistant secretary, Edgar Galvante, to suspend all PMVIC operations throughout the country until a comprehensive public consultation is held, “with the end in view of promoting transparency to stakeholders and the public.”

The new Motor Vehicle Inspection System, which is being gradually rolled out throughout the country, is envisioned to make sure that all the motor vehicles that ply our roads are 100% roadworthy and are safe for the public. However, it is not without controversy.

During the past few weeks, cities like San Fernando, La Union, Dagupan, Pangasinan, as well as the Province of Ilocos Norte, have already moved to suspend the PMVIC operations within their respective jurisdictions, citing the high cost of inspection fees and complaints from motorists.

An anti-corruption NGO, the Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC) has submitted a petition to the Supreme Court asking to suspend the privatization of the MVIS implementation. Senator Grace Poe has also filed an earlier resolution to probe the alleged irregularities in the implementation of the MVIS.