LTO: LGUs' traffic enforcers cannot confiscate driver's license

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has reiterated that traffic enforcers deployed by local government units (LGUs) do not possess the legal authority to confiscate a motorist's driver's license. In a statement, the LTO clarified that existing regulations only permit traffic enforcers within LGUs to issue citation tickets, and not to confiscate licenses. This directive aims to define the scope of authority in enforcing traffic laws and protect citizens' rights. The announcement comes in response to reports of some LGUs' traffic enforcers directly confiscating driver's licenses. The LTO pointed out that such actions lack legal basis and could impose undue burdens on drivers. While traffic law enforcement in the Philippines falls under the LTO's jurisdiction, many LGUs also enforce their own traffic management rules. The LTO's latest advisory seeks to clarify the powers of LGUs in their enforcement activities and ensure consistency in law enforcement nationwide. The LTO urges drivers who experience unjust confiscation of their licenses to report to the nearest LTO office. It also calls on LGUs to ensure proper guidance for their enforcers and to strictly adhere to their legally defined powers. This matter may spark discussions on traffic management in the Philippines, particularly concerning transparency and fairness in law enforcement at the local level.