Land Transportation Office (LTO) Chief Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II revealed on Saturday that investigations have begun into 160 medical clinics nationwide following reports of anomalous issuance of medical certificates.
Mendoza explained that a medical certificate is a crucial requirement for obtaining a driver’s license. However, the LTO received reports that some accredited clinics have been issuing medical certificates without actual medical examinations, simply in exchange for payment.
“It’s clear that even if you don’t undergo a physical check-up at these clinics, as long as you’re willing to pay, you can still get a medical certificate. This is wrong, and we will pursue those responsible,” Mendoza said.
He added that Department of Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon immediately ordered the LTO to prepare administrative and criminal charges against those involved, including the physicians who signed off on these fraudulent certificates.
Dizon has pledged to intensify efforts to ensure road safety, targeting erring motorists and improving infrastructure.
Mendoza stressed that this modus operandi from the clinics poses a serious threat to road safety since applicants for driver’s licenses are not actually being examined.
“I have instructed our regional directors to retrieve all medical certificates issued by these clinics and to notify license holders whose certificates are questionable to explain themselves,” Mendoza said.
“If the evidence warrants, we will revoke the accreditation of these clinics and impose a lifetime ban on their transactions with the LTO,” he added.
The 160 medical clinics nationwide will start receiving show cause orders this week, following President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to go after those who compromise road safety.