Local traffic enforcers can’t confiscate driver’s licenses – LTO

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has lauded a new memorandum that prohibits local traffic enforcers from confiscating driver’s licenses during apprehensions.

Issued by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the memo reiterates that only deputized agents are allowed to confiscate licenses even during apprehensions for traffic violations.

“The LTO appreciates the action of the DILG in ordering local government units and local police forces around the country not to confiscate drivers’ licenses during apprehension for this action is solely reserved for the LTO and its deputized agents and law enforcement personnel,” the agency said in a statement.

This move, it noted, is in line with a ruling from the Supreme Court and Republic Act 10930 that amended the Land Transportation and Traffic Code to give LTO deputized agents and law enforcement personnel the sole authority for license confiscation.

Meanwhile, the LTO reminded motorists not to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs because of the dangers it posed for both drivers and the public. From January to August this year, 476 drivers were apprehended after getting into vehicular accidents. All of them tested positive for alcohol intoxication.

In the same period, its Law Enforcement Service–Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Enforcement Unit recorded 558 road accidents, which resulted in 17 deaths and 281 injuries.

The driver’s licenses of motorists who tested positive for alcohol intoxication are placed under alarm and slapped with a 90-day preventive suspension pending a resolution to determine other administrative sanctions and penalties.

The LTO said it would conduct more random terminal inspections and random drug tests nationwide to ensure the safety of the commuting public.

“Time and again, we have all seen the disastrous consequences brought about by drunk or drugged driving, more importantly during the Yuletide season, where many families go out to celebrate and be merry. It is time that we change that mindset in order to avert the loss of life and property,” said LTO chief Teofilo Guadiz.