The Land Transportation Office (LTO) clarified that there is no nationwide ban on electric bicycles and tricycles, emphasizing that current restrictions apply only to major national highways due to safety concerns.

In an official statement, LTO Chief Markus V. Lacanilao said e-bikes and e-trikes remain allowed on city and municipal roads, countering circulating claims of a total prohibition.

“To be clear, there is no blanket ban on e-bikes and e-trikes. These vehicles remain free to operate on city and municipal roads,” Lacanilao said.

He explained that the restriction is limited to high-speed national thoroughfares such as EDSA, C-5 Road, and Roxas Boulevard, where the speed gap between e-trikes and larger vehicles poses significant risks to road users.

The policy is being enforced in coordination with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority as part of joint efforts to improve road safety across Metro Manila.

Lacanilao stressed that the move is “preventive, not punitive,” aimed at reducing the likelihood of accidents involving slower-moving electric vehicles on busy highways.

Outside Metro Manila, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) is prioritizing public information and education campaigns while finalizing comprehensive guidelines for e-bike and e-trike use.

The LTO urged the public to cooperate and understand the policy as authorities work toward ensuring safer roads for all motorists and commuters.