8 E-trikes apprehended; highways ban commences

The enforcement of the ban on electric tricycles (e-trikes) and similar vehicles on major Metro Manila highways started on Saturday, with Land Transportation Office (LTO) teams apprehending eight vehicles for violating the prohibition.

The inspections were conducted along Quirino Avenue in Manila, Roxas Boulevard, C-5 Road, and Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA), all of which are covered by the ban that took effect on 2 January 2026.

Under the policy, e-trikes, e-bikes, and similar light electric vehicles are prohibited from traversing EDSA, C-5 Road, Roxas Boulevard, and the stretch from Quirino Avenue to the South Luzon Expressway.

A total 114 such vehicles were inspected by LTO enforcers.

LTO chief Markus V. Lacanilao said the policy is based on existing traffic rules and protocols issued by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), citing road safety and traffic efficiency concerns.

“The implementation of this policy hinges on road safety considerations. Major highways are designed for large and fast-moving vehicles. E-trikes are not fit for these roads because of the fast and heavy pace of traffic,” Lacanilao said.

He warned that mixing slow-moving vehicles such as e-trikes with faster traffic could create hazardous conditions and increase the risk of accidents.

Drivers caught violating the ban may be penalized under Republic Act 4136, or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, as well as Joint Administrative Order 2014-01.

Sanctions may include fines, impoundment of vehicles, or both.

Lacanilao said the LTO had informed the public for months that e-trikes would no longer be allowed on high-speed thoroughfares, stressing that the measure was intended to improve traffic flow and enhance overall road safety.

“These highways are designated for higher-speed vehicular movement, and alternative transport units like e-trikes require dedicated lanes or appropriate routes to operate safely,” he said.

While emphasizing safety, Lacanilao acknowledged that many Filipinos rely on e-trikes as a source of livelihood and as an affordable mode of transport for commuters.

He said the LTO will coordinate with local government units in Metro Manila and transport sector stakeholders to develop clearer guidelines and identify safer alternative routes where e-trike operators can continue to operate without disrupting traffic or endangering road users.