LTO 7 Launches Facebook Hotline for Public to Report Traffic Violations in Central Visayas
The Land Transportation Office 7 (LTO 7) has officially launched the Citizens Law Enforcement Hotline Facebook Page, providing motorists in Central Visayas with a direct and convenient channel to report traffic violations and unsafe driving practices. This innovative initiative aims to empower the public by allowing them to submit videos, dashcam footage, and other evidence of infractions online, thereby strengthening enforcement efforts and promoting safer roads across the region.
How the New Reporting System Works
LTO 7 Officer-in-Charge Regional Director Francisco "Franz" Ranches Jr. announced the hotline page during a news forum on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. He emphasized that this platform enables citizens to easily report violations or traffic incidents using their mobile phones. Reports should include essential details such as the date, time, and location of the incident, along with the vehicle's plate number or Motor Vehicle (MV) file number, and a brief description of the violation.
All submissions will be directed to LTO 7's Operations Division, which serves as the agency's primary law enforcement and road safety arm. Ranches stated, "We want to inform the public that we have a new citizens' page in our office where they can easily report violations or traffic incidents using their phones." He further encouraged community participation, adding, "We invite everyone to help us report traffic incidents, especially violations, to keep our roads safe for everyone."
Enforcement Authority and Legal Measures
Ranches highlighted the agency's robust enforcement capabilities, noting that LTO 7 has the authority to issue show cause orders and suspend driver's licenses. In more severe cases, the office can also recommend the revocation of licenses. This underscores the seriousness with which reported violations will be addressed, ensuring that accountability is maintained and road safety standards are upheld.
Background and Leadership of Director Ranches
The launch of the Facebook hotline is among the priority programs initiated by Ranches since he assumed leadership of LTO 7. He brings decades of extensive experience to the position, having previously served as LTO Assistant Regional Director in Calabarzon and Regional Director in Bicol. Additionally, Ranches spent nine years as Vice Mayor of Vigan, Ilocos Sur, which has equipped him with valuable insights into public service and governance.
Ranches succeeded former LTO 7 Regional Director Glen Galario and has immediately focused on implementing urgent reforms aimed at promoting road safety and significantly reducing road crashes in Central Visayas. His vision includes a comprehensive approach to improving transportation standards across the region.
Key Reforms and Future Priorities
Under Ranches' leadership, LTO 7 is pursuing several critical reforms to enhance road safety. These initiatives include:
- Strict and Transparent Driver Licensing: Ensuring that driver's license exams are conducted with integrity and strict compliance to guarantee only qualified motorists are permitted on the roads. Ranches emphasized, "Seryosohin ang lisensya," highlighting the importance of taking licensing seriously.
- Rigorous Vehicle Inspections: Implementing stricter inspections of vehicle roadworthiness to prevent accidents caused by mechanical failures.
- Expanded Driver Education: Promoting the Free Theoretical Driving Course (FTDC) to improve driver knowledge and skills.
- Integrity Development: Fostering honesty and professionalism among LTO personnel to enhance the agency's overall credibility and effectiveness.
By combining stricter enforcement with active public reporting through the new Facebook hotline, LTO 7 aims to cut down on traffic crashes and create safer road environments for all residents and visitors in Central Visayas. This collaborative effort between the agency and the community represents a significant step forward in addressing traffic violations and improving overall transportation safety in the region.
