The Land Transportation Office (LTO) announced that it is temporarily suspending the impounding of e-bikes and e-trikes operating on national highways starting Monday, December 1, 2025.

LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao said through a Facebook video that the agency will first launch a nationwide information drive to help light electric vehicle (LEV) users understand the rules before enforcing penalties.

“Bilang tugon sa mga hinaing ng publiko… pansamantalang walang impounding operation habang nagpapatupad muna kami ng malawakang information drive,” Lacanilao said.

LTO personnel will begin road awareness efforts on December 1, while actual impounding will start on January 2, 2026.

He clarified that there is no total ban—only a restriction on using national highways, which are intended for fast-moving vehicles. E-bikes and e-trikes may still pass through:
• Local and secondary roads (depending on LGU ordinances)
• Bike lanes for low-speed LEVs, when permitted
• Subdivisions, private roads, and private compounds

Crossing national highways remains allowed; what’s prohibited is using them as regular travel routes.

Lacanilao added that the rule is anchored on RA 4166 and the Road Classification System, which designate national roads for high-speed motor vehicles to reduce accidents.

He also urged lawmakers to pass a law requiring LEV registration to help authorities identify owners in the event of accidents, emphasizing that improving regulations should not wait until a major incident occurs.

Source: The News Channel