LTO launches info kiosk, text message service

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Office (LTO) yesterday launched new services  aimed at helping customers with their transactions.

LTO chief Assistant Secretary Edgar Galvante introduced the LTO Kiosk, an interactive 42-inch touchscreen self-service computer terminal where the public can get information about transactions, requirements and other matters related to the agency.

“With this facility, frequently asked questions can be answered,” he said in an ambush interview with reporters.

Among these are queries on the documents needed for the application and renewal of driver’s licenses. The equipment was provided by information technology service provider Stradcom Corp. The first unit was installed at the LTO office in Diliman and the plan is to roll out 35 units in the agency’s Metro Manila offices within the year.

Stradcom first vice president Ramon Reyes said each unit is worth around P200,000.

“The target is is to have one kiosk for every LTO site and there are around 350 sites in the country,” Reyes said in an interview with reporters.

Reyes said they also plan to include a feature wherein people can inquire in Filipino.

The LTO also relaunched its text messaging service wherein the public can get information on motor vehicles.

By typing LTO Vehicle and the plate number and sending the message to 2600, a person can verify if a vehicle has pending apprehensions and alarms. Each text costs P2.50.

The same could be done for driver’s licenses where a person can check the authenticity of a license card presented by another individual.

This is advantageous for people buying second-hand cars, according to Galvante.