The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is drafting requirements for the registration and licensing of electric bicycle and electric tricycle users, according to the Land Transportation Office (LTO).
In an interview on DZRH’s Dos Por Dos, LTO Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao said the policy is being finalized through a Joint Memorandum Circular involving the DOTr, LTO, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).
The circular will cover registration requirements and driver licensing for e-bike and e-trike users.
Lacanilao said enforcement against violations has already begun even as the rules are being finalized. He reported that LTO recorded 114 apprehensions on Friday, which dropped to 75 on Saturday and 45 on Sunday, noting a downward trend as motorists became more aware of the restrictions.
He clarified that the LTO’s initial approach focused on guidance rather than impoundment, particularly during the first few days of enforcement.
Enforcers were instructed to advise e-bike and e-trike riders to use inner roads whenever possible. However, riders who refused to comply or committed serious violations were issued tickets.
“Hangga't maaari ayoko naman mag-impound o manghuli. Kasi ang target ko po yung mas malalaking isda, sila siyempre kababayan natin. Pero siyempre, hindi natin maiwasan. Meron pong mga matitigas ang ulo, kaya naticketan po namin.”
Lacanilao said some riders were surprised to be ticketed, including those without driver’s licenses. He explained that violators with valid identification can still be issued tickets, and these violations are recorded in the LTO database. Once they apply for a driver’s license in the future, any unresolved violations will appear in the system.
The LTO official also acknowledged that some minors have been apprehended while operating e-bikes or e-trikes. He reiterated that enforcement actions are documented based on available identification, adding that penalties can still be imposed even if the rider does not yet hold a license.
As of now, e-bikes and e-trikes remain prohibited on major thoroughfares, including the entire stretch of EDSA from Pasay to Monumento, Quirino Avenue to Magallanes along the South Luzon Expressway, C-5 Road, and Roxas Boulevard.
Lacanilao said local government units may expand restricted roads within their jurisdictions, noting that the LTO supports such measures, such as with the recent compliance of Paranaque LGU.
LTO began apprehensions on January 2 as part of efforts to improve road safety while awaiting the release of the joint circular, which is expected once remaining details are completed.
