7 vehicles with altered numbers, questionable papers, theft records recovered in Kalinga; PCpt. Bongngat reminds public to exercise caution when buying motorcycles, cars

TABUK CITY, Kalinga – Seven vehicles, including motorcycles with defaced identification numbers, cars with questionable registration documents, and units reported stolen or not returned to their owners, were recovered by the Highway Patrol Group (HPG)-Kalinga from January to October 2026.

The recoveries consisted of four motorcycles and three motor vehicles, according to the unit’s accomplishment report obtained by Guru Press Cordillera on November 3.

Among the recovered motorcycles was a Honda XRM with defaced engine and chassis numbers, raising questions about its identity and registration.

Two other motorcycles—a Honda XRM and a Honda CRF—were locally alarmed or reported to authorities for monitoring and verification.

For four-wheel vehicles, HPG-Kalinga recovered a Honda BR-V with spurious registration documents, a Toyota Innova listed as wanted after it was not returned, and a Toyota Hi-Ace van reportedly stolen while parked unattended.

Some of the recovered vehicles have since been released to their respective owners after undergoing the required procedures.

In one operation involving a locally alarmed Honda XRM, authorities also arrested a suspect who was subsequently brought for inquest proceedings.

The recoveries form part of HPG-Kalinga’s efforts to track stolen vehicles, detect units with questionable documents or identification numbers, and assist owners in recovering their missing property.

Under the leadership of Police Captain Jordan L. Bongngat, the unit continues to conduct highway patrol and vehicle-related law enforcement operations across the province.

Bongngat reminds the public to exercise caution when buying second-hand vehicles. Buyers are advised to verify the vehicle’s registration papers and ensure that the engine and chassis numbers match the details recorded in the official documents. They should also check the vehicle’s legal ownership and verify its records with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) before completing any transaction.

Buyers are discouraged from purchasing vehicles offered at unusually low prices or through sellers who cannot present complete and authentic documents. Any suspicious vehicle or transaction should be reported to the proper authorities to avoid unknowingly buying stolen vehicles or units with altered identification numbers.