The Department of Transportation (DoTr) is set to enforce a ban on electric bikes (e-bikes) and electric tricycles (e-trikes) on national roads starting 2 January 2026, citing safety concerns and existing laws.

Acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez clarified in an interview that light electric vehicles weighing 50 kilograms or less — whether e-trikes or e-bikes — are prohibited on national roads. “Regardless of whether the use is private or public, these vehicles are banned on national roads for safety reasons,” Lopez said.

Lopez emphasized that registration of e-bikes and e-trikes is free for private use, but vehicles intended as public transport or common carriers must be registered. “Even on secondary roads, e-trikes used as common carriers need to be registered so we can properly regulate them,” he added.

The DoTr will use December as a period for massive information campaigns to ensure the public is aware of the rules before full enforcement. “We are giving people enough time to adjust. We need clear rules and regulations. Drivers of light electric vehicles must also have a valid driver’s license,” Lopez said.

The secretary stressed that the move is not “anti-poor” but rather aimed at protecting commuters. Registration, he added, allows authorities to verify the roadworthiness of these vehicles.

Lopez also discussed preparations for the holiday season, saying monitoring of terminals has been ongoing since Undas. Special permits have been issued for 1,500 buses from 15 December to 16 January to ensure enough public transport is available. Additional TNVS (transport network vehicle services) units have been deployed at airports to accommodate incoming and outgoing passengers.

The government will also intensify enforcement of “Oplan Isnabero,” which now includes TNVS and motorcycle taxis. Lopez confirmed consultations with transport network company operators are scheduled for Wednesday, and a decision on surge pricing will be made soon. “We will either defer or cancel it, depending on the legal review,” he said.

Regarding Manibela’s proposed “stop work” protest, Lopez said the DoTr is in talks with the organization and with Assistant Secretary Lacanilao to resolve issues related to vehicle registration delays and allegations of payola. “The goal is to prioritize employees with valid allegations and remove those found with evidence. Dialogue is the key,” he said.

Lopez assured the public that contingency plans are in place for affected routes in case of strikes, including free transport services to prevent disruption. He also confirmed that e-gates will soon be launched at airports to improve passenger processing.

“More announcements are expected this week regarding surge pricing, Oplan Isnabero enforcement, and airport upgrades,” Lopez said, underscoring the government’s commitment to safe, efficient, and regulated public transport.