529,578 erring motorists collared

The Land Transportation Office apprehended 529,578 motorists in 2023, a substantial increase fueled by intensified enforcement against traffic violations and road safety lapses nationwide.

Procurement of additional vehicles for enforcers remains a top priority for the LTO this year to further bolster its efforts.

Data compiled by the agency reveals the most common reasons for apprehensions being violations of the Clean Air Act, Seatbelt Law and exceeding cargo and passenger capacity limit.

Additionally, the LTO impounded a total of 23,615 motor vehicles in 2023, marking a significant 47 percent increase compared to the previous year.

LTO chief Vigor Mendoza II urged motorists to strictly adhere to traffic laws and road safety regulations, particularly with the ongoing enforcement of the "No Registration, No Travel" policy.

This policy aims to address the approximately 24.7 million delinquent motor vehicles with expired registrations, representing roughly 65 percent of the total vehicle population in the country.

Mendoza emphasized the importance of vehicle registration and renewal as a means to ensure roadworthiness and prioritize safety.

"We don't want to apprehend violators, as it translates to additional fines and burdens for our citizens," Mendoza said. "However, intensifying our road safety campaign is crucial because the lives of everyone are at stake."