2 taxi drivers blacklisted over fake IDs

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO) has blacklisted two taxicab drivers after their driver’s identification cards were found to be fake using its identification system.

CTTO deputy head and spokesperson Paul Gotiong said the fake identification cards were confiscated by enforcers roving the city routes to apprehend traffic violators.

"Normally, when enforcers doubt the authenticity of identification cards, they radio our communication center so that we can check using their (PUV drivers') ID number," added Gotiong.

He said the two identification cards were found by the enforcers to contain a similar address, prompting them to have the ID numbers checked using the CTTO's identification system.

It was found out that the subject IDs had different information.

"We traced the ones we confiscated and found out that one of the drivers has unsettled fines," he said.

Gotiong said the CTTO has been trying to find out who is behind the fake IDs. He added it is looking into other suspicious identification cards.

"As of now daghan gyud ta nabantayan, but we were able to confiscate two nga medyo naklaro naman nga fake gyud," Gotiong said.

He said the CTTO has actually changed its font from that previously used for original identification cards.

It also informed field personnel of specific security features of its CCTO driver’s identification cards, including its seal that leaves marks on the laminated ID.

Gotiong warned that those fake CCTO identification cards will be confiscated, and possessors will be issued a citation and be blacklisted "unless they clear their names."

However, those whose CCTO identification cards were confiscated will still be allowed to apply for them, noting the identification cards were issued to control drivers and discipline them.

"If ever they will apply, they will have to answer for that first," said Gotiong.

Meanwhile, Gotiong said more than 200 Balik Pasada Permits were issued by the city government through the opening of its application hub at Plaza Sugbo from June 7 to 11. — Deogracia William Bemida, Silliman University intern, GMR (FREEMAN)