The City Traffic Management Office (CTMO) has once again issued a stern warning to tricycle drivers, particularly those operating colorum tricycles, regarding overcharging passengers as the International Dragonboat Competition draws closer.
City Information Officer Richard Ligad, who also heads the CTMO, said they are currently monitoring the streets and conducting a “war on colorum tricycles” as part of preparations to ensure that tourists who take tricycle rides are charged fares in accordance with the official fare matrix.
Colorum tricycles are those that operate without the essential legal permits, franchises, or licenses mandated by local government units or transportation authorities. These vehicles are frequently regarded as illegal due to their lack of proper registration, non-compliance with the established fare matrix, and potential failure to meet the safety and operational standards mandated by the authorities.
They may also lead to traffic problems and interfere with the regulated public transport system, as they do not fall under the same oversight as legally franchised vehicles.
“Unang-una, idinadaan natin sa pakiusap sa ating mga mamamayan. First time mangyayari itong Dragon Boat World Championship,” Ligad said.
“Pero pinaghahandaan din natin ito dahil hindi naman pwedeng basta-basta magdidikta ng presyo lalo na at walang prangkisa,” he added.
He further stated that the event will also provide an opportunity for tricycles with proper franchises, but he also warned them against overcharging their passengers.
He sought the indulgence of everyone to show the visitors how disciplined and hospitable the residents of Puerto Princesa City are.
“Ayoko naman dumating sa punto na yung maglalagay tayo ng tag at ‘yun lang ang sakyan nila. Pangit din tingnan na may tag kaya lahat ng TODA kakausapin din natin,” he said.
Ligad further explained that as the city prepares to host the International Dragonboat Competition for the first time, it will also be an opportunity to showcase what the city has to offer.
“Sabi nga natin, blessing in disguise kasi hindi nga dapat dito gaganapin yan kundi sa China. Kasi kung magbi-bid, hindi talaga natin makukuha yan so napakalaking opportunity na dito yan gaganapin,” he said.
“Once in a blue moon ito na hindi pa natin inasinta kaya yung mga kababayan natin lalo na yung mga tricycle drivers ay pinakikiusapan natin at ipakita natin na hindi tayo mapagsamantala dahil mas marami pa tayong blessings na matatanggap,” he elaborated.
