LTO bans German tourist from driving in Philippines

By Gerome Dalipe IV

The Land Transportation Office Region 6 (LTO 6), under the supervision of Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon, has disqualified a German tourist from driving or obtaining a Philippine driver’s license for one year after he was caught violating traffic laws in Iloilo.

According to a resolution signed by LTO 6 Regional Director Atty. Gaudioso P. Geduspan II, the tourist was apprehended during a traffic stop on July 3, 2025, in Cabatuan, Iloilo, for failing to wear a seatbelt.

Further verification showed he had overstayed the 90-day validity period for using a foreign driver’s license in the Philippines, having entered the country on Feb. 25.

The action was based on a recommendation by Investigation and Intelligence Unit Chief Shiela Mae C. Alulod, who cited violations of Republic Act No. 8750 (Seatbelt Law) and Republic Act No. 4136 (Land Transportation and Traffic Code).

Body camera footage from the traffic enforcer documented the violations and showed the tourist unable to present a valid local driver’s license or passport at the time of the stop.

The enforcer issued a Temporary Operator’s Permit and secured the tourist’s Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR) for identity verification.

The tourist later filed a formal complaint alleging misconduct and unlawful confiscation of his ACR.

However, LTO 6 dismissed the complaint after an internal investigation found no abuse of authority, citing the body-cam video that showed the driver voluntarily surrendering his ACR.

“This resolution is a clear affirmation of our commitment to road safety and due process,” Geduspan said.

“Foreign motorists are welcome here, but they must observe Philippine laws, especially those intended to protect lives on the road.”

LTO Chief and Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II earlier emphasized accountability for all road users, including foreign visitors.

In addition to the one-year disqualification, the tourist was ordered to pay administrative fines for his violations.

Geduspan directed the LTO 6 Traffic Adjudication Board to release the ACR only after the full payment of penalties.