LTO to start strict enforcement of e-bike ban on national highways

Starting next month, unregistered electric bicycles (e-bikes) and electric tricycles (e-trikes) will be banned from plying national highways as the Land Transportation Office (LTO) begins enforcing the policy that includes impounding these vehicles.

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In a press briefing yesterday, the LTO announced that the measure will take effect on December 1.

Under existing laws, including Section 5A of the Land Transportation and Traffic Code (RA 4136), all motor vehicles on public roads must be registered with the LTO. Electric vehicles, including battery-powered e-bikes, hybrid plugins, and low-emission vehicles (LEVs), are considered motor vehicles under this definition.

"Unless expressly repealed or declared inconsistent with the law, this IRR remains valid and enforceable," said LTO Chief Markus Lacanilao.

He added that the LTO's position underscores that motor vehicles operating on public highways are covered by the agency's mandate under Section 5A of RA 4136, which states that no motor vehicle shall be used or operated on any public highway in the Philippines unless it is properly registered.