Fake LTO office uncovered in Malasiqui, Pangasinan

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has uncovered a fake Land Transportation Office (LTO) satellite office operating in Malasiqui.

According to John Consulta’s report on “24 Oras” on Tuesday, a video showed a building bearing the signage “LTO Office, Malasiqui District Office.”

During an entrapment operation, authorities recovered fake vehicle registration documents, driver’s licenses, and LTO forms.

“Bilang asawa ng isang barangay captain, nasasakupan niya po ito. Sa tingin ko, may karapatan po kaming gumawa ng establisyimento,” the suspect said.

(As the wife of a barangay captain, this is under his jurisdiction, so I think we have the right to put up an establishment.)

When asked if the office was authorized by the LTO, the suspect said its accreditation was still being processed.

This was contradicted by the regional director, who was present during the operation, saying there is no approved or pending plan to establish an LTO satellite office in the town.

Authorities also seized uncut counterfeit money at the site.

“Malaking operasyon ang gustong gawin nito. Dalawang buwan na nag-o-operate. Talagang nagpakilala na opisyal ng LTO officer at opisina. Nakakatakot ito para sa ating mga kababayan na naniniwala na sila’y nakapagproseso ng tamang dokumento sa LTO,” said NBI Director Melvin Matibag.

(The suspect appeared to be running a large operation and had been operating for two months. She even presented herself as an LTO officer. This is alarming for the public who may believe they have processed legitimate documents with the LTO.)

The LTO warned that individuals who obtained fake documents could face legal and practical problems.

“Yung mga maaksidente, maiipit pa rin kahit na nasa tama dahil peke ang mga papel nila. Kapag magre-renew sila, maiipit din dahil peke ang papel,” said LTO chief Markus Lacanilao.

(Those involved in accidents could still face complications even if they are not at fault because their documents are fake. They may also encounter problems during renewal for the same reason.)

Matibag urged the public to verify the legitimacy of offices they transact with and to report suspicious activities to the NBI.

GMA News is seeking comment from the suspect.—Mariel Celine Serquiña/MCG, GMA News