The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has officially announced a crackdown on electric bicycles and tricycles found operating on national highways, with a firm date set for the start of vehicle impounding operations.
Information Drive Precedes Impounding
In a video statement, LTO chief Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao detailed the agency's phased approach. He clarified that starting December 1, 2025, the LTO will launch a widespread information campaign regarding the prohibition of light electric vehicles (LEVs) on major roads.
This awareness drive is a direct response to public concern. Lacanilao emphasized that President Bongbong Marcos and Secretary Giovanni Lopez have heard the public's appeals. "Therefore, there will be no impounding operations for now while we first implement a broad information drive to give everyone sufficient time to understand and comply with the existing regulation," he stated.
Impounding Starts January 2026
The enforcement teeth of the new policy will come into effect shortly after the new year. Beginning January 2, 2026, LTO personnel will start impounding e-bikes and e-trikes caught traversing national highways.
This action is based on the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (Evida). Under these rules, LEVs weighing 50 kilograms are designated for exclusive private use and are not intended for public highways.
Safety is Primary Concern
Lacanilao reiterated that the core intention behind the prohibition is to ensure public safety on the roads. The presence of slower, lightweight electric vehicles on high-speed national highways poses a significant risk to both the riders of these vehicles and other motorists.
To eliminate confusion, the LTO is set to issue comprehensive guidelines that will clearly define where light electric vehicles are permitted to operate and which roads are strictly off-limits. This move aims to standardize enforcement and help the public adapt to the new traffic landscape.
