Transport group graft complaint vs. Mendoza over fees; LTFRB chair points to reforms

A transport group has filed a graft complaint before the Ombudsman against Land Transportation, Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) chairperson Vigor Mendoza II and Anthony Quiambao of Stradcom Corporation over the alleged unlawful collection of P169 million in computer fees from public utility vehicle owners.

In a statement, the Federated Land Transport Organizations of the Philippines (FELTOP) accused Mendoza of graft because the then LTO chief allegedly allowed Stradcom to impose a P169 computer fee per transaction from January 28, 2025 to February 28, 2026.

This amount allowed the LTO to collect P169 million in total computer fees.

FELTOP said the amount covers approximately one million public utility vehicles registered under the Stradcom IT system.

FELTOP spokesperson Jun Braga said their complaint “seeks accountability, transparency, and protection for small transport operators who continue to bear additional operational costs”.

Pending the resolution of the complaint, FELTOP has also asked the Ombudsman to issue a 90-day preventive suspension against former LTO Chief Mendoza from his current position at the LTFRB, as well as order the refund of all computer fees paid by PUV operators beginning January 28, 2025, up to the present.

In response, Mendoza said he only implemented policies anchored on reforms during his time at the LTO.

“Our aggressive policy reforms geared towards fast and comfortable services when I was still in the LTO cut deep into the interests of some individuals and groups that they still feel the sharp and biting pain of the effects until now, and therefore, could not move on,” Mendoza said in a statement.

“Nevertheless, I respect and welcome the decision of the self-proclaimed transport group to bring the matter to the Office of the Ombudsman since this is the proper forum to shed light on this old and recycled issue,” he added.

Mendoza, however, argued that the complaint against him is based on vendetta, not merit.

“This is not about accountability. This is plain and simple desperation to get even,” Mendoza said.

For its part, Stradcom Corporation said it has yet to receive a copy of FELTOP’s complaint filed before the Ombudsman, but assured that it will “respond accordingly and take the necessary legal steps to address what appear to be unfounded graft allegations against our company.”

In a statement, Stradcom stressed that it “operates and delivers service” to the LTO “pursuant to a valid, legal, binding, and enforceable concession agreement with the agreement.”

“We remain compliant with the terms and conditions of our concession agreement, and faithful in helping the LTO’s service to the motoring public,” it added. –NB/JMA, GMA Integrated News