ILLEGAL. Authorities account for right-hand drive vehicles found at an auto surplus shop in Davao City on May 21, 2025. The registration and use of right-hand drive vehicles in the Philippines is prohibited under Republic Act 8506. (Photo courtesy of LTO)
DAVAO CITY – In a major operation targeting illegal vehicle importation and rebuilding, authorities raided three auto surplus shops in Davao City on May 21st.
The crackdown, led by the Land Transportation Office (LTO), specifically focused on the illegal importation and “backyard rebuilding” of right-hand drive vehicles.
Acting on confirmed intelligence reports, the LTO – backed by the Philippine National Police, the Highway Patrol Group, Davao City inspectors, and operating under the directives of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon – targeted JP Malik Trucks and Equipment Corp., Mahar Motor Surplus Corp., and Umar Japan OPC.
LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Vigor D. Mendoza II stated the shops lacked accreditation as importers, rebuilders, or dealers for right-hand drive vehicles.
He emphasized that the importation of such vehicles itself violates Republic Act 8506, which bans the registration and operation of right-hand drive vehicles on Philippine roads.
“The importation of right-hand drive motor vehicles is also illegal itself,” Mendoza reiterated, linking the operation to a similar raid in Quezon City last month. “This is part of our sustained operations… Charges will be filed.”
Seizures and Sanctions:
- 42 vehicles were impounded from Umar Japan OPC’s storage area.
- One vehicle – was seized from Mahar Motor Surplus Corp.
- Two trucks – were taken from JP Malik Trucks and Equipment Corp.
The LTO has recommended administrative sanctions against all three businesses to the Davao City local government. An investigation is ongoing.
