More than 20 tricycle drivers were caught by local authorities during a surprise operation targeting unregistered or “colorum” tricycles near Mangaldan National High School in Pangasinan on June 16, 2025, the first day of classes.

A special task force from the Public Order and Safety Office (POSO) set up early in the morning to check traffic flow and spot colorum vehicles. Most of the violators were found to be operating out of line or without official permits.

Among those apprehended was Rene Pandong, who admitted to operating without registration.

“Hindi pa nakukuha ‘yung rehistro, OR/CR po... hindi pa po [ako namamasada],” he said.

POSO Chief Gerardo de Guzman Ydia said the crackdown was part of a campaign to keep roads safe, especially near schools.

“Unang salvo ng aming paghuli diyan sa Mangaldan National High School. Madami rin ang nagulat, hindi na tumuloy dahil nga naalarma sila sa aming kampanya against colorum na tricycle,” Ydia said.

According to the Business Permits and Licensing Section, about three percent of the 1,520 tricycles operating in Mangaldan are colorum.

Authorities said there are still franchises available for those who wish to register properly.

Legitimate tricycle drivers welcomed the crackdown, saying it is only fair.

“Dapat lang na mahuli ‘yong mga ‘yon. Kasi noong Marso pa ‘yong deadline sa pagkuha ng permit, kaya lang hindi pa sila kumukuha. Dapat lang na mahuli sila,” Dennis Dizon, a tricycle driver, said.

The task force vowed to continue operations in the coming days to ensure public safety and fair competition among drivers.