The Land Transportation Office (LTO), under the leadership of Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II, has issued a directive to all regional directors to ensure the complete distribution of tricycle license plates by April 30, 2025. This move marks a significant milestone in the agency’s ongoing efforts to eliminate plate backlogs and curb unauthorized tricycle operations nationwide.
A Catch-Up Plan for Tricycle License Plates
The directive comes after a thorough inventory of printed license plates confirmed there are enough plates to cover all registered tricycles across the country. Asec Mendoza expressed confidence in the agency’s ability to meet the deadline, citing advancements in plate printing processes that began last year.
“This is part of our catch-up plan to distribute license plates,” Mendoza stated. “As we committed before, we are doing everything in our power to speed up printing, and we’re pleased to announce that we’ve achieved this milestone. The current challenge lies in delivering these plates to their rightful owners.”
Mendoza also acknowledged the crucial support of Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista. “Tayo po ay nagpapasalamat sa ating DOTr Secretary sa kanyang patuloy na suporta upang masolusyunan na ang matagal na problema sa plaka na nagsimula pa noong 2014,” he added.
Regional Distribution Plans Underway
To ensure an organized and efficient distribution process, Mendoza has tasked LTO regional directors with creating and submitting detailed distribution plans by January 27, 2025. These plans will be tailored to each region’s specific needs and past experiences to streamline the rollout.
Key to the program’s success is coordination with local government units (LGUs). Mendoza highlighted the essential role LGUs play in such initiatives, emphasizing the importance of involving barangay officials and other local leaders. “Ever since, the LGUs have played a significant role in the distribution of license plates. Even the barangay officials are always willing to assist; all we need is proper coordination,” he explained.
Addressing Backlogs and Combating Illegal Operations
The tricycle plate distribution initiative aligns with LTO’s broader strategy to address motorcycle plate backlogs by July 2025. The backlog for four-wheel vehicle license plates was resolved in early 2024, paving the way for a concentrated focus on tricycles.
Mendoza underscored the importance of legitimate license plates in addressing the issue of colorum tricycles—unregistered vehicles operating outside the law. “Ensuring all tricycles have legitimate plates is a critical step in eliminating colorum operations in towns and cities,” he stated.
A Model for Nationwide Implementation
One standout example of effective distribution is Quezon City, where the local government coordinated with LTO to distribute plates to all registered tricycles. Tricycle Operators and Drivers Associations (TODA) in the city have praised the initiative, noting significant improvements in their daily earnings following the elimination of colorum competition.
“We want to replicate this good practice in Quezon City to the rest of the country,” Mendoza said. “With the help of LGUs, we will not only address the backlog but also the problem of colorum tricycles.”
Challenges and Solutions
Despite the progress, the program faces logistical challenges, particularly in rural and remote areas where coordination and accessibility may pose hurdles. Mendoza urged all regional directors to proactively engage with local officials to address these issues.
The LTO is also exploring ways to use technology and community partnerships to expedite the process. Mobile distribution units, centralized pickup points, and enhanced tracking systems are among the strategies being considered.
The Road Ahead
The successful completion of this initiative will represent a major win for the LTO’s commitment to modernization and public service. By April 30, registered tricycle owners across the Philippines are expected to have their plates, paving the way for improved transportation systems and reduced illegal operations.
Mendoza’s directive is a testament to the agency’s dedication to resolving long-standing issues and fostering stronger collaborations with LGUs. With the combined efforts of the LTO, local governments, and community stakeholders, the April 30 deadline appears well within reach.