LTO Regional Director Takes Bold Step to Eradicate Illegal Fixers and Bribery
In a significant move to clean up the agency, Land Transportation Office (LTO) Regional Director Francisco Ranches Jr. has launched a comprehensive campaign to completely eliminate illegal fixers and bribery, practices that have long plagued the organization. This initiative represents a major challenge for Ranches's leadership, as he tackles deeply entrenched issues that have corroded the agency's efficiency and reputation over time.
A Moral Crusade and Operational Necessity
The new campaign against fixers and bribery is not merely a moral crusade; it is an essential step to accelerate document processing within the LTO. It is undeniable that many clients have resorted to using fixers, despite higher costs, because this method often proves faster and less cumbersome than following official procedures. However, when clients bypass the proper channels through bribery, it inevitably causes delays and suffering for those who adhere to the correct process, as priority is unfairly given to those who pay extra.
If illegal fixers and bribery are successfully eradicated, the system is expected to become more orderly, leading to faster processing times for all clients. This improvement will occur because no one will be able to skip the line, ensuring a fair and transparent workflow for everyone involved.
Focus on Employee Training and Professionalism
Director Ranches emphasizes the importance of having all agency employees act with integrity, courtesy, and good conduct to provide clients with a smooth and professional transaction experience. He asserts that if processes are applied equally to all, clients are less likely to complain about delays or inefficiencies. To support this goal, Ranches plans to enroll all employees in seminars conducted by the Civil Service Commission. These sessions will reinforce that efficient service depends on their dedication and performance, not on illegal negotiations.
This initiative serves as a reminder to the public that the "fast process" should always be the "official process." Ranches aims to instill in every employee's mindset that prompt and reliable service is the standard for the agency, fostering a culture of accountability and excellence.
Restoring Credibility and Integrity
Should Ranches succeed in this endeavor, it will greatly contribute to restoring the credibility and integrity of the LTO. The hope is that he remains steadfast in implementing these measures, persistently working towards a future where illegal fixers, likened to pests hovering around the agency, are completely eradicated. This crackdown is a crucial step in rebuilding public trust and ensuring that government services operate with transparency and efficiency for all Filipinos.
