LTO probing IT providers of private emission test centers

MANILA, Philippines - The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has ordered an investigation of information technology (IT) providers hired by private emission test centers (PETCs) which have failed to submit data to the agency. A complaint received by the agency said that IT providers’ failure to submit data to the LTO allows unscrupulous PETCs to issue permits to vehicle owners even without examining their cars. One of the IT providers being questioned is the Cyberlink Inc., which according to the complaint, has failed to follow real time uploading of emission photos and data. The process is part of the PETC-IT Webcam program, a joint project of the LTO and PETCs which intend to eradicate unscrupulous testing centers involved in illegal activities such as “non-appearance" and issuance of bogus emission compliant certificates. It involves the installation of web cameras on every test center to record all transactions being made by PETC. “As centers that always tried to comply with the high standards and strict requirements set as a PETC IT Provider, it is definitely unfair for us that this non-compliance will be allowed by your office without any repercussion or penalty," said officials of PETC IT Providers, ETCIT, Eurolink and RDMS in a complaint sent to LTO Chief Alberto Suansing. The same group also asked LTO Chief Alberto Suansing to undertake necessary action against the said IT provider to send a strong message to the industry. “We are concerned about the harm it would bring to the entire emission test industry if such illegal practice will be allowed to continue," the complaint stated. “We hope the LTO would act on it immediately." Some LTO officials have also expressed concerned over the growing number of "second rate" emission testing centers, saying that the agency’s hard work would only be put to waste because of these illegal activities. - GMANews.TV