LTO 7 Distributes Over 1,000 Vehicle Plates in Central Visayas with New Roadside Initiative
In a significant move to streamline vehicle registration services, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) 7 has released a total of 1,077 motor vehicle plates following the launch of its innovative "Friendly Flag Down" program. This initiative, which commenced on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, in Central Visayas, is designed to bolster enforcement of registration laws while offering fast and accessible roadside assistance to motorists across the region.
Program Details and Operational Hours
The flag down operations are conducted daily during peak traffic hours, specifically from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.. According to LTO 7 Director Wendel Dinglasan, this proactive campaign is not solely focused on enforcement but aims to bring government services directly to the people. "We are here to help motorists secure their plates in the most efficient and convenient way possible," Dinglasan emphasized, highlighting the program's service-oriented approach.
Distribution Breakdown and Regional Impact
Of the 1,077 plates distributed, the majority—1,000 plates—were allocated to Cebu, while 77 plates were released in Bohol. This distribution underscores the program's targeted efforts to address the backlog of unclaimed license plates in Central Visayas, ensuring that motorists receive their permanent plates promptly.
How the Friendly Flag Down Program Works
Under this initiative, LTO 7 personnel conduct flag-down operations targeting vehicles and motorcycles with temporary plates. Authorities stop these vehicles to inform owners about the availability of their permanent plates. On the program's inaugural day, motorists were assisted in verifying their plate status by presenting their Motor Vehicle Official Receipt and Certificate of Registration. This process allowed officials to check availability and release records efficiently, facilitating a smoother experience for drivers.
The "Friendly Flag Down" program represents a strategic shift towards more accessible and responsive government services, aiming to reduce delays and improve compliance with vehicle registration requirements in Central Visayas.
