LTO chief says intensified enforcement contributing to fewer traffic violations

Land Transportation Office (LTO) Chief Assistant Secretary Markus V. Lacanilao said the agency's intensified enforcement campaign, particularly the issuance of Show Cause Orders (SCOs), has contributed to a decline in traffic violations as more motorists comply with road safety laws.

In an interview, Lacanilao said while he could not immediately provide exact figures, intelligence reports from the LTO's Intelligence and Investigation Division (IID), as well as daily monitoring, indicate that traffic violations have decreased compared to the previous year.

"I don't have the exact data right now, but based on intelligence reports and our latest monitoring, violations are going down because more motorists are complying with the law," he said.

Lacanilao stressed that the LTO enforces traffic laws impartially, regardless of a motorist's status or the type of vehicle involved.

"We do not choose who to apprehend. Whether rich or poor, whether it's a luxury vehicle, an ordinary vehicle, a motorcycle, a private individual or a government official, the law applies equally," he said.

According to Lacanilao, he personally reviews Show Cause Orders before the end of each day, with the agency issuing an average of 10 to 20 SCOs daily for various violations, including road rage incidents and other offenses documented by enforcers and the public.

He clarified that only a fraction of the issued SCOs are posted on the LTO's social media pages.

"People think we only issue Show Cause Orders for viral cases, but that is not true. We cannot post every case because our page would be flooded. Many cases are acted upon even if they are not publicized," he said.

The LTO chief also encouraged the public to report traffic violations through the agency's "Report to the LTO Chief" platform, where complaints are reviewed within 24 hours.

He said complainants may also monitor the outcome of their reports, including whether a driver's license has been suspended or permanently revoked.

Lacanilao also dispelled the misconception that the LTO is prohibited from conducting enforcement operations at night.

"That is a misconception. We are authorized to conduct operations 24 hours a day, including weekends. It is part of our mandate," he said.

He warned motorists, particularly young people involved in illegal street racing, that the agency will continue to intensify operations against the activity.

"We have already impounded many vehicles involved in illegal racing. We urge our youth to stop engaging in these activities because if they are caught, their vehicles will be impounded," he said.

Meanwhile, Lacanilao disclosed that the LTO is pursuing an amnesty program for vehicle owners with long-overdue registration penalties.

He said the proposal is awaiting approval from the Department of Finance, the Department of Transportation, and the Office of the President, with implementation being eyed between July and August.

The LTO chief also reminded motorists to keep their vehicles properly registered and to carry valid driver's licenses, noting that unregistered vehicles are subject to impoundment.

He likewise urged public utility vehicle drivers to prioritize passenger safety by complying with traffic laws and avoiding reckless driving.

Lacanilao also warned dealers against selling vehicles without proper accreditation or complete documentation, saying such practices could leave buyers unable to legally register their vehicles and expose sellers to penalties.

"We will continue to go after dealers who deceive buyers by selling vehicles without proper authority or the necessary documents," he said.