The Land Transportation Office (LTO) announced that no impounding of electric bicycles (e-bikes), electric tricycles (e-trikes), and other light electric vehicles (LEVs) will take place on December 1, 2025. Instead, the agency will conduct a nationwide information drive to educate the public on proper usage and regulations.

In a video statement, LTO Chief, Assistant Secretary Markus V. Lacanilao emphasized that strict enforcement, including apprehension and impoundment of violators, will begin on January 2, 2026, with no exemptions.

“Pansamantalang walang impounding operation habang nagpapatupad muna kami ng malawakang information drive upang bigyan ng sapat na panahon ang lahat na maunawaan at makasunod sa umiiral na regulasyon,” the LTO Chief Asec. said.

The clarification follows public confusion over whether the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) exempts certain LEVs from LTO regulation. According to the agency, LEVs intended for exclusive private use remain exempt from registration under EVIDA.

However, when these vehicles operate on national highways, where they are prohibited, the LTO retains the legal authority to apprehend and impound units, in accordance with existing traffic laws.

“Matagal nang bawal ang e-bikes o e-trikes at iba pang LEV sa national road at highways. Noon pa man, malinaw na sa RA 4136 at sa ating road classification system na ang national road ay para sa high-speed motor vehicles para maiwasan na aksidente at traffic hazard,” Lacanilao said.

The LTO also highlighted the areas where LEVs are permitted:

• Local and secondary roads, subject to local government ordinances

• Bike lanes for low-speed and lightweight LEVs, if approved by the LGU

• Private roads, subdivisions, and other private compounds

Crossing a national highway at designated crossings is allowed, but cruising or traveling along the highway is strictly prohibited.

Starting December 1, LTO personnel will be visibly present on roads nationwide to explain these rules and provide guidance to LEV users.

The agency emphasized that January 2, 2026, marks the start of strict enforcement, and violations will result in apprehension or impoundment without exception.