Photo courtesy of Land Transportation Office.
QUEZON CITY (PIA) — Amid the proliferation of street crimes perpetrated by groups and individuals on wheels, the Philippine National Police (PNP) inked an agreement with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) embarking on data-sharing to improve the government’s crime prevention efforts and streamline police investigations.
The agreement, facilitated by Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos, effectively enables police to access motor vehicle records, particularly those linked to criminal activities.
During the signing ceremony, Abalos emphasized the importance of advancing technology within law enforcement.
“With most criminal elements going digital, the PNP and the entire government law enforcement machinery must be one step ahead to be effective and efficient in crime prevention and crime-busting,” he said.
The memorandum of agreement was signed by PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil and LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Vigor D. Mendoza II.
According to Mendoza, LTO will create a verification facility that would allow the PNP Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) to access motor vehicle registration information related to ongoing investigations.
Mendoza, however, clarified that the motor vehicle registration access that would be provided would be in a “read-only” format for which the police may only be able to review details such as the Certificate of Registration, official receipts, and ownership history without altering any records.
In return, the PNP will allow the LTO to validate the Motor Vehicle Clearance Certificate (MVCC) submitted during vehicle registration, ensuring the authenticity of documents involved in various transactions, including ownership transfers and modifications.
“This agreement solidifies the existing partnership between the PNP and LTO in law enforcement and supports President Marcos’ commitment to maintaining peace and order in the country,” Mendoza said.
Marbil commended the LTO for its role in enhancing the PNP’s capacity for effective law enforcement through digital innovations. “We have been advocating for this kind of partnership for some time, and I am pleased that it has come to fruition under my leadership,” the PNP chief noted.
The collaboration aims to bolster the capabilities of law enforcement agencies in tackling crime in an increasingly digital landscape, ensuring greater safety for citizens both on the streets and at home. (GLG/PIA-NCR)
