President Benigno S. Aquino III lays the replica of “vara de mando” (cane of command, which is the symbol of authority of General Emilio Aguinaldo as “capitan municipal” or “gobernadorcillo” of Cavite El Viejo (old name of Kawit) in a special casing to signal the formal inauguration of the Museo ni Emilio Aguinaldo at the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite on Friday (March 20). The museum chronicles the life and times of Aguinaldo, especially during the revolution against Spain and war against the United States. Also in photo are National Historical Commission of the Philippines chairperson Dr. Maria Serena Diokno and Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Abaya. (MNS photo)
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Transportation Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya justified on Wednesday the implementation of the “no registration, no travel” policy of the Land Transportation Office (LTO), saying it was in accordance with the law.
LTO is under the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) being headed by Abaya.
“We are merely applying the law. Unregistered vehicles are prohibited from being driven on roads,” he said in a text message, when sought for comment on opposition by some sectors, including the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), on the policy that took effect Wednesday, April 1.
“If we don’t, LTO may be sued for not enforcing the law. At the end of the law is for vehicle owners and passengers safety,” Abaya added.
And as to the MMDA’s reported refusal to apprehend violators, the transportation chief said: “I’m sure MMDA is a very busy agency. They have other functions to attend to.”
“They are merely deputized and we appreciate their help. No reason for brothers to quarrel,” said Abaya. (MNS)