529,578 motorists held for traffic violations

MANILA, Philippines — At least 529,578 motorists were apprehended for traffic violations across the country in 2023, according to the Land Transportation Office (LTO).

Western Visayas had the most number of apprehensions at 88,051 drivers.

A total of 57,494 motorists were apprehended in Cagayan Valley and 40,800 in Central Visayas.

The Cordillera Administrative Region and Caraga had the least number of apprehensions, with 10,520 and 12,337, respectively.

The LTO said the number of those apprehended in 2023 is slightly higher compared to the 517,319 in the previous year.

LTO chief Vigor Mendoza said the presence of LTO traffic enforcers would be intensified to implement road safety and traffic laws.

“The mere presence of our uniformed personnel on the roads encourages motorists to observe discipline. We want the presence of our personnel on the road further intensified because observance of traffic discipline translates to road safety,” Mendoza said in a statement.

He said a majority of those apprehended violated Republic Act 8749 or the Clean Air Act, RA 8750 or the Seatbelt Law, or were found to be overloaded.

The LTO said the number of impounded motor vehicles increased by 47 percent last year, totaling 23,615.

Mendoza urged motorists to strictly follow traffic laws, especially the LTO’s “No Registration, No Travel“ policy.

The LTO said 24.7 million vehicles or 65 percent of the total number of cars and motorcycles in the country have expired licenses.

The agency stressed the importance of registration, saying it ensures the roadworthiness of vehicles.

Mendoza noted that violators also face fines.

He said the agency is prioritizing the procurement of motor vehicles for its enforcers this year to ensure the strict implementation of traffic laws.

The LTO had said a strict crackdown on unregistered vehicles would resume this month.

Motorists may face a fine of P10,000 if caught driving an unregistered vehicle.