Local officials in Mangaldan, Pangasinan have denied claims that tricycle franchise applications require approval or endorsement from Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association (TODA) presidents, following complaints raised by drivers and applicants.

The Public Order and Safety Office (POSO) said it received reports alleging that applicants must first pass their franchise applications through TODA presidents before these are accepted by the municipal office. Some applicants also claimed that without the “basbas” of a TODA president, their applications would not be approved.

Ramil Eden, a tricycle driver, said the practice has long been part of the process.

“Ganun naman talaga ang ginagawa lahat, ganun. Dadaan sa TODA sa presidente bago sila mabibigyan ng permit,” Eden said.

Officials from several TODAs also admitted that applications usually pass through their offices, saying the process helps ensure that drivers’ documents are complete.

Eduardo Soriano, an officer of BABTODA, said their role is limited to verification.

“Para lang ma-confirm na updated ang licenses, OR-CR. Tapos kung okay na, pupunta na sila sa LGU para sa legalization,” Soriano said.

However, POSO clarified that no TODA official has the authority to approve or deny franchise applications. The office stressed that endorsements from TODA presidents are not required for an applicant to be granted a franchise.

POSO added that applicants may directly submit their requirements to the office without going through any TODA official. It said TODAs are only asked to assist in the verification and validation of documents.

Mangaldan POSO chief Gerry Ydia said the final approval remains with the local government.

“For verification lang naman sila. Nag-ask lang kami ng assistance kasi mas kilala naman nila ‘yung mga taga-barangay nila, pero lahat pa rin ay dadaan dito sa amin,” Ydia said.

As of January 13, 2026, there are more than 1,500 registered tricycles operating legally in Mangaldan. The local government said there is no limit on the issuance of new franchises as long as applicants submit complete documents. Officials added that the policy aims to reduce the number of colorum tricycles in the town.