In a significant leadership reshuffle within the Land Transportation Office, Wendel Dinglasan has been officially designated as the new regional director of LTO 7, covering Central Visayas. This appointment follows Office Order 2026-089, dated March 6, 2026, issued by Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez, as part of a broader reorganization aimed at enhancing operational efficiency across the agency.
Leadership Changes and Reassignments
Dinglasan takes over from Francisco "Franz" Ranches Jr., who had been serving as the officer-in-charge of LTO 7 since January 2026. Under the same office order, Ranches has been reassigned to the position of acting regional director for the LTO Mimaropa Region. Additionally, LTO 7 Assistant Director Arturo Apolinar has been transferred to an equivalent role in Mimaropa, further solidifying the reshuffle's impact on regional management.
Background and Experience of Wendel Dinglasan
Wendel Dinglasan brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Prior to this appointment, he served as the acting director of LTO Mimaropa and was appointed as director II by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on August 4, 2025. His career includes a tenure as officer-in-charge of the Traffic Adjudication Service at the LTO Central Office in Quezon City, where he honed his skills in administrative and regulatory functions.
In March 2026, Dinglasan implemented a notable policy in Mimaropa, mandating courteous and respectful public service across all LTO offices in the region. This initiative reflects his commitment to improving customer relations and streamlining agency operations, which is expected to benefit LTO 7 as he assumes leadership.
Contributions of Francisco Ranches Jr.
During his time as officer-in-charge of LTO 7, Francisco Ranches Jr. made significant strides in enhancing public engagement and enforcement. He launched an online hotline page that allowed citizens to report traffic violations and lodge complaints, thereby increasing transparency and accountability. In February 2026, Ranches intensified a crackdown on modified mufflers, resulting in the impoundment of 192 motorcycles from January to February, demonstrating a proactive approach to road safety.
Ranches succeeded former LTO 7 director Glen Galario and previously held positions as LTO assistant director in Calabarzon and regional director in Bicol, showcasing his extensive background in transportation management.
Implications of the Reshuffle
This leadership reshuffle, ordered by Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez, is part of ongoing efforts to optimize the Land Transportation Office's regional operations. By reassigning experienced officials like Dinglasan and Ranches, the agency aims to leverage their expertise in different regions, potentially leading to improved service delivery and regulatory enforcement. The move underscores the government's focus on adaptive management and responsive governance in the transportation sector.
