DOTr to LTO: suspend DL confiscations

MANILA: The leadership of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) ordered the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to suspend the confiscation of driver’s licenses (DL) in apprehension cases involving traffic violations.

As posted in the government agency’s Facebook page, Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez gave the instruction to the LTO via a memorandum circular that shall take effect immediately.

Per DOTr, the order is in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to streamline and clarify procedures in apprehending erring motorists whose DL have been confiscated.

Other stories: Bustamante to race in Eurocup 3 Winter Series, Championship Series 2026 with Palou Motorsport CAMPI airs concern on CARS, RACE funding veto PH auto parts makers group raises concern on CARS, RACE budget removal in 2026 GAA

Aside from stopping DL confiscation, the transport chief also sought for the revisiting of all “pertinent issuances to ensure consistency across all existing policies.”

Further, he also adjusted the guidelines for settling traffic apprehension cases by changing the lead time from 15 calendar days to 15 working days, “to afford both the government and the public sufficient time to resolve cases.”

“Ibig sabihin po nito, hindi kasama ‘yung mga holiday at long weekend sa bilang ng araw kapag magse-settle ng violation ‘yung driver ("This means that holidays and long weekends are not included in the number of days when the driver settles a violation),” Lopez mentioned.

Additionally, the DOTr noted that although DL confiscation was temporarily halted, the violator’s license will be under alert and will be automatically suspended or revoked should the driver fail to settle the case within 15 working days.

Also read:

LTO online DL renewal pilot run for Taiwan-based OFWs successful

LTO aims to address DL backlogs earlier than expected

LTO assures Pres. Marcos Jr. of sufficient DL card supply

Connect with us through our various social media pages:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZigWheelsPhilippines

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zigwheelsph/

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zigwheels

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ZigWheelsPhilippines/