LTFRB sacks 5 officials for issuing colorum franchises

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board sacked five of its officials on Monday, including its NCR Regional Director, for multiple charges of allegedly issuing colorum franchises to public utility vehicles.

A report from Oscar Oida on GMA News TV's Balitanghali said LTFRB investigations bared Regional Director Rodolfo Jaucian and four other officials were also awarding franchises that were earlier revoked by the agency.

The LTFRB officials now face charges of graft, violation of the code of ethical standards, grave misconduct, and abuse of authority.

LTFRB chairman Martin Delgra said anomalies in its NCR offices are impossible to occur without the knowledge of its regional director. 

Delgra added investigators also found questionable documents inside the pantry of Jacian's office. 

The report said the graft charges against the LTFRB officials can be traced way back to the Arroyo administration.

GMA News is still trying to reach Jaucian, who is now dismissed from duty.

The LTFRB has sacked more than 40 officials nationwide in its anti-corruption drive and improve its services.

Delgra sought understanding to the public for any inconveniences in the agency's businesses amid the dismissal of its top officials. — Joseph Tristan Roxas/RSJ, GMA News