The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has announced the temporary suspension of fines and fees for motorists affected by the onslaught of Typhoon Tino and Super Typhoon Uwan, as part of the agency’s relief measures for license holders whose permits recently expired.
In a directive issued on Wednesday, November 12, LTO Chief Markus Lacanilao ordered all regional directors, assistant regional directors, operations division heads, and chiefs of district and extension offices nationwide to extend the validity of driver’s licenses that expired on October 30.
According to the LTO, this move aims to ease the burden on motorists who were unable to renew their licenses or settle traffic violations due to the severe impact of the recent typhoons.
The agency clarified that motorists apprehended between October 28 and November 12 will not be subjected to the usual 30-day accessory penalty suspension typically imposed on those who fail to pay or settle violations within 15 days after receiving a Temporary Operator’s Permit (TOP).
This policy will remain in effect until November 28, the LTO added.
According to the latest report from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) on November 11, at least 232 people have been confirmed dead due to Typhoon Tino, while 27 fatalities were recorded following the landfall of Super Typhoon Uwan.
The two typhoons caused widespread flooding and massive damage to major roads across Luzon, displacing thousands of residents and disrupting transportation in several regions.