Legazpi City: The Land Transportation Office in Bicol (LTO-5) has mandated all accredited driving schools, institutions, and medical clinics to adhere strictly to regulations to ensure the roadworthiness of motor vehicles and the qualifications of licensed drivers. A memorandum signed by LTO-5 Director Edgar Allan Castillejos highlighted that ongoing reports of “non-appearance” in transactions have prompted this compliance order.
According to Philippines News Agency, “non-appearance” refers to cases where individuals receive driver’s licenses or vehicle registrations without completing necessary personal appearances, examinations, medical assessments, or inspections. The memorandum, signed on Monday, stated that such practices undermine the integrity of the LTO’s regulatory functions and pose threats to public safety by resulting in unroadworthy vehicles and licenses issued to unqualified drivers.
Director Castillejos has instructed all entities to meet accreditation requirements, operational standards, and monitoring protocols for driving schools, medical clinics, private emission testing centers, and private motor vehicle inspection centers. He stressed the importance of implementing verification and authentication procedures to prevent fraudulent or proxy appearances in all transactions.
All involved parties are urged to exercise diligence and accountability in conducting examinations, evaluations, and inspections. They must also report any personnel, institutions, or agencies found engaging in or allowing prohibited practices. Castillejos emphasized that the memorandum serves as a final warning, asserting that LTO-5 will not tolerate actions or omissions that compromise the safety of the motoring public and undermine process credibility.
In addition, LTO-5, through its district offices, is offering free theoretical driving courses for aspiring drivers. The program aims to develop responsible driving habits, understanding of traffic regulations, and a culture of safe driving. These courses will be held on May 6 and 7 in Ligao City, Albay; May 7 and 8 in Irosin, Sorsogon; and May 10 and 11 in Pamplona, Camarines Sur.
LTO-5 stated that this initiative is part of the agency’s efforts to promote road safety and educate future drivers on the fundamentals of responsible driving. The free theoretical driving course is one of the projects launched under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to empower Filipino citizens through accessible and inclusive services.
