The Philippine National Police Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) reported the recovery of six motor vehicles and a motorcycle linked to various schemes during a series of anti-carnapping and assistance operations conducted nationwide on April 29, 2026.
In Roxas City, Capiz, authorities flagged down a Ford Raptor along Arnaldo Boulevard after verification showed it had been involved in a “rent-tangay” scheme earlier reported in Bulacan. The driver failed to present proper documents and eventually surrendered the vehicle.
A separate operation in Tarlac City led to the recovery of a Toyota Vios after police assistance was requested. Investigators found that the vehicle had changed hands multiple times through assumed balance arrangements and resale, resulting in conflicting ownership claims. Both parties agreed to turn over the unit for further examination.
In Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, police recovered an abandoned motorcycle that had been reported stolen days earlier. The unit was discovered unattended with its key still inserted.
Authorities also retrieved a Toyota Grandia in Bayambang, Pangasinan, linked to a “fail-to-return” case under an assumed balance agreement. The vehicle was voluntarily surrendered after verification of an existing complaint.
In Quezon City, a Toyota Innova was recovered after its owner tracked it via GPS. The unit had been reported as “fail-to-return” due to defaulted payments under a similar financing arrangement.
Meanwhile, in Malita, Davao Occidental, a motorcycle was surrendered after forensic examination revealed tampered engine and chassis numbers. Another motorcycle in Pampanga was also turned over to authorities after its registration documents were found to be fake following an online purchase.
In Subic, Zambales, police recovered a Nissan Terra initially flagged for a traffic violation. Further checks revealed it was tied to a “Talon-Casa” scheme and had an outstanding financial obligation exceeding P1.2 million. The possessor relinquished the vehicle.
Another Toyota Vios was recovered in Santa Maria, Bulacan after authorities found it had no valid registration and was also linked to a similar fraudulent financing scheme.
All recovered vehicles are now in police custody for further investigation, including forensic checks and proper disposition. Authorities said charges are being prepared against individuals involved in the schemes.
PNP-HPG Acting Director Rommel Batangan warned that deceptive practices such as “rent-tangay,” “talon-casa,” and falsified documentation remain prevalent, urging the public to exercise caution when buying or financing vehicles.
He advised prospective buyers to verify documents, deal only with legitimate institutions, and report suspicious transactions to authorities to avoid financial losses and legal issues.
The Highway Patrol Group said it will continue to intensify operations against vehicle-related crimes as part of its mandate to safeguard motorists and uphold road safety.
