LTO Chair Suspends Same-Day Release Order
Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao, the new Land Transportation Office (LTO) Chairperson, has suspended the order requiring the release of license plates and documents on the same day new motor vehicles are handed over to their owners. This directive, known as the same-day release order, was initially mandated under Memorandum Circular VDM-2025-4665.
The memorandum was issued last September 17 by the former LTO Chairperson Vigor Mendoza. It aimed to streamline the process and ensure that vehicle owners receive their plates and registration documents promptly. However, Lacanilao’s suspension signals a reconsideration of this policy.
Background of the Same-Day Release Order
The same-day release order was introduced to reduce delays in the delivery of vehicle documents. Local leaders and community members had welcomed the initiative, expecting faster transactions and less inconvenience. Officials reported that the directive was part of broader efforts to improve service efficiency at the LTO.
Yet, some stakeholders raised concerns about the feasibility of consistently meeting the same-day release mandate, citing logistical challenges and administrative bottlenecks. Sources said these issues may have influenced the new Chairperson’s decision to suspend the order.
Reasons Behind the Suspension
According to LTO insiders, the suspension allows the agency to reassess operational capabilities and address problems encountered during the implementation of the same-day release order. Community members noted that the move could prevent rushed processing that might compromise document accuracy and quality.
Officials reported that the suspension is temporary and that the LTO plans to conduct consultations with relevant stakeholders to develop a more effective approach to document release. This step aims to balance speed with reliability, ensuring vehicle owners receive their plates and documents without undue delays or errors.
Impact on Vehicle Owners and Dealers
Vehicle owners who recently purchased new motor vehicles may experience delays in receiving their license plates and documentation due to this suspension. Dealers expressed mixed reactions; some welcomed the pause to improve processing standards, while others worried about potential longer wait times.
Sources added that the LTO will continue to prioritize efficient service delivery and explore technological solutions to expedite document issuance in the future.
Looking Ahead
The suspension of the same-day release order marks a critical juncture for the LTO’s efforts to modernize and enhance its services. Officials emphasized that reforms remain underway, and adjustments will be made based on feedback from the public and industry stakeholders.
As the agency works on refining its policies, vehicle owners and dealers are advised to stay updated on announcements regarding document release procedures. For more news and updates on land transportation and vehicle registration, visit Filipinokami.com.
