A group of government agency officials and drivers in Negros Occidental yesterday vowed to address issues in taxi operations to strengthen the industry.

Officials from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, Land Transportation Office, Bacolod City Police Office, and the Bacolod Traffic Authority Office met with leaders and members of the Association of United Taxi Operators in Negros Occidental Inc. on public transport problems and possible measures to solve these.

LTO Bacolod Chief Renato Novero said they have apprehended several “colorum” vehicles and owners were fined for operating taxi units without permits and franchise.

AUTON operators also raised the issue on “coupon” transport vehicles because the drivers’ supposed route is only from the Bacolod-Silay airport to any destination but some divert from their designated route.

The transport group members also said that drivers of these “coupon” vehicles even park near the Provincial Capitol to get passengers within Bacolod City as if they are regular taxi operators.

The officials said they have called the attention of the vehicles’ operators, and reminded them on their route limitations.

Meanwhile, operators were advised during the meeting to re-seal their taxi meters until the end of July.

Following the passage of the ordinance authored by Bacolod Councilor Al Victor Espino, all taxi cabs in the city will be required to install an anti-hold up or emergency assistance device as deterrent to crimes victimizing the drivers.

BCPO director, Senior Supt. Ricardo de la Paz said the device is an effective crime deterrent and this will be properly coordinated within Negros Island once implemented.*

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