Manila: Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez has directed the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to introduce additional payment methods, particularly cash, for vehicle owners utilizing the services of private motor vehicle inspection centers (PMVICs).

According to Philippines News Agency, this directive comes in response to complaints regarding the current exclusive online payment system at PMVICs, which imposes an extra PHP65 charge on top of the inspection fee. Lopez emphasized the significance of the PHP65 amount, noting that it could be utilized for essential expenses such as transportation and food. He stressed the importance of continuously enhancing public service efficiency.

The initiative aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s mandate to simplify government transactions for citizens. Furthermore, Lopez instructed the PMVIC Authorization Committee to issue a show cause order against a specific PMVIC, highlighted in social media complaints, to justify their single payment option policy.

Lopez underscored the necessity for multiple payment methods, including cash, to accommodate those without access to online mobile wallets. He advocated for flexibility to ensure that all users have convenient payment options.

In response to the situation, the LTO clarified that the criticized vehicle renewal facility (VREF) is not located within the LTO office in Angono, Rizal, but rather at a nearby PMVIC. VREFs are online motor vehicle renewal centers established by the LTO at PMVICs to facilitate online transactions.

The current payment setup stems from a 2020 agreement executed in 2022 between the LTO and Paynamics, which designated the payment channel for online transactions, including a convenience fee and value-added tax to be borne by the client. This agreement is set to expire this month.