The Land Transportation Office (LTO), in a bid to streamline the registration of motor vehicles and improve road safety, has reiterated its strict operation of the “No Registration, No Travel” policy. The policy is aimed at reducing the number of delinquent vehicles, which currently stands at a staggering 24.7 million.

So this is a reminder to all vehicle owners in the Philippines, especially those with expired registration, to renew their vehicle’s registration as soon as possible. Failure to do so may result in penalties and inconvenience for both the owner and other road users.

Calling All Government Agencies

At the helm of this initiative is LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II. Mendoza has instructed the agency’s regional directors to liaise with other government agencies and consolidate a list of vehicles with expired registrations. These vehicles are often still in use, posing a threat to other road users.

“We are seeking the assistance of these government agencies for the renewal of the registration of the delinquent vehicles under their respective offices,” Mendoza stated, calling for unified efforts to improve road safety in the country.

No Time to Waste

Owners of vehicles with expired registrations have been urged by Mendoza to renew their vehicle registrations as soon as possible. As part of the implementation process, more enforcers will be deployed to implement the “No Registration, No Travel” policy.

The push for strict implementation was prompted by instructions from Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, who urged stringent adherence to Republic Act 4136, the Land Transportation and Traffic Act. Specifically, Section 5 of the Act, which necessitates the compulsory registration of all motor vehicles.

Safety Comes First

Mendoza also highlighted the importance of routine checks in ensuring the road worthiness of vehicles. “This provision clearly states that no motor vehicle shall be used, driven or operated on the roads without being currently registered with the LTO,” Mendoza reminded.

Currently, around 65% of the motor vehicles in the country are classified as delinquent, with owners either failing or deliberately refusing to register their vehicles.

A Hit to the Government’s Pocket

The lack of vehicle registrations not only poses a safety risk but also has financial implications. The government has reportedly lost approximately P37 billion in uncollected payments due to unregistered vehicles. These uncollected payments are from the 24.7 million vehicles that have not been registered for at least a year.

The LTO is now coordinating with other law enforcement agencies to strictly implement the “No Registration, No Travel” policy, urging citizens to comply and reminding them of their obligations.

In Mendoza’s words, this is not just about revenue but about “the road worthiness of vehicles and the safety of all road users”. It is a call to action for all vehicle owners to uphold their responsibilities and ensure the safety of all road users.

The LTO’s commitment to enforcing the “No Registration, No Travel” policy is clear. As the policy takes effect, road users, vehicle owners, and government agencies alike are urged to take the necessary steps to comply, ensuring safer roads for all.