LTO extends expired licenses during quarantine

CEBU, Philippines — The Land Transportation Office has extended validity of expired student-driver permits, driver’s license and conductor's license to all 17-years old up to 21-years old and 60-years old up to 65-years old which expired during the quarantine period.

LTO-7 regional director Victor Emmanuel Caindec welcomed the development since the agency has been receiving queries especially those that were affected during the community quarantine periods.

“This is really good news for everyone. Since the IATF made the move of allowing restricted age groups to go out of their houses, they now have the chance to process their expired licenses or permits to our offices," said Caindec in a statement.

In a memorandum issued on October 19, 2020, LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Edgar Galvante stated that all SP, DL, and CL of the ages mentioned are extended until December 31 of this year.

“Due to the expected volume of applicants, the validity of SP, DL, and CL that expired during the restriction period is hereby extended until 31 December 2020," read the memorandum which takes effect immediately.

The agency explained that the following people under the age group, "were not allowed outside their residences," due to the pandemic.

Earlier, LTO also extended the renewal of student-driver permit of persons aged 20 but will turned 21-year old during the strict community quarantine on October 31, 2020.

To recall, on October 15, 2020, the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) under the Resolution No. 79 announced that restrictions of the stay-at-home will now be limited to 15 year old and below, and 65 years old and above.

Caindec likewise urged their clients to remember that the COVID-19 virus is still here and quarantine remains but more people are now allowed to go out due to the easing of such restrictions.

“Your LTO offices are strictly observing the minimum health protocol. We urge the transacting public to always wear your face mask and face shield inside our offices," Caindec further said. — GMR (FREEMAN)