LTO waives license fines for typhoon-hit drivers

By Gerome Dalipe

Motorists grappling with the aftermath of Typhoons Tino and Uwan can now heave a collective sigh of relief.

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has announced a nationwide waiver of penalties for driver’s license renewals and certain traffic adjudication transactions, extending the renewal deadline to November 28, 2025.

This crucial extension, issued upon the directive of Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Z. Lopez and implemented by LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Markus V. Lacanilao, provides a much-needed lifeline as communities recover from the twin typhoons, ensuring that affected drivers will not face additional burdens for expired licenses.

The LTO’s move also aims to ease the burden on drivers and motorists who were unable to process their renewals due to widespread work suspensions during the typhoons.

LTO-6 Regional Director Atty. Gaudioso P. Geduspan II said the move provides a vital grace period for affected drivers.

“We recognize that many motorists could not transact with the LTO because of the severe weather disruptions,” Geduspan said.

“This extension ensures they will not be penalized for circumstances beyond their control.”

Under the directive, all driver’s licenses due for renewal on October 30, 2025, will remain valid, and no penalties will be collected on renewals completed up to November 28, 2025.

The LTO is also temporarily waiving accessory penalties for motorists apprehended between October 28 and November 12, 2025.

This means drivers will not be subject to the usual 30-day suspension that applies when a violation is left unsettled within 15 days from the issuance of a Temporary Operator’s Permit (TOP).

This waiver will likewise remain in effect until November 28, 2025.

Geduspan encouraged all affected motorists to take advantage of the extension and complete their renewals promptly.

“The LTO remains committed to compassion and fairness, especially during recovery efforts after consecutive calamities,” he added.