PNP-HPG seizes "budget meal-priced" luxury vehicles

Since the Congress–DPWH flood control projects controversy broke out, social media has been flooded with suspicious listings of used luxury vehicles being sold at “budget meal” prices. With high-end cars suddenly offered well below their fair market value, questions naturally arise: are these fire-sale deals a way to quickly liquidate assets, now that the government is pursuing individuals potentially linked to the trillion-peso corruption scandal?

The Philippine National Police–Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) has also taken notice of the surge and has seized three high-end vehicles in separate operations in Pasay City and Cavite. Among the cars seized in Pasay were a 2023 GMC Yukon Denali and a 2022 Porsche Boxster. Authorities also impounded a Chevrolet Camaro in Cavite for lack of valid paperwork.

According to PCol. Hansel Marantan, Acting Director of HPG, all seized vehicles were impounded because they could not present valid documents confirming ownership or registration.

Marantan emphasized that without proper documentation, no vehicle transaction can be considered valid, regardless of the type or market value of the unit. Legitimacy and complete papers, he stressed, remain non-negotiable.

This crackdown aligns with broader efforts by the PNP-HPG and other relevant government authorities to protect consumers and maintain transparency in used car markets. Motorists are being reminded to demand complete documentation, like OR/CR, Deed of Sale, and other documentation to support proof of ownership before purchasing vehicles.

If ever you encounter such, just remember the old adage: if it’s too good to be true, it probably is.