LTO to issue temporary licenses, waive penalties amid license mess

As it continues to sort out the mess involving a surprise design change implemented by a contractor, the Land Transportation office is issuing temporary licenses and waiving penalties for license applicants for now.

 

In a radio interview, LTO head Virginia Torres said it would be unfair to applicants if they will be penalized for not getting their licenses on time.

 

"Hindi tayo pwedeng magpabaya sa kapakanan ng taumbayan ... I have instructed na gumawa sila ng paraan sa pamamagitan ng pag-issue ng temporary driver's license at ang resibo, we [will] consider them as their licenses. As to penalties, walang penalties. Waived ang penalties kasi walang kasalanan ang taumbayan sa pangyayaring ito," Torres told dzBB radio.

 

Since Monday, the LTO has suspended indefinitely the issuance of drivers' licenses due to a surprise design change by the contractor, Amalgamated Motors Philippines Inc.

 

Torres also said she has ordered the supplier to immediately revert to the old features.

 

"Maganda ang gesture nila, the purpose of upgrading the system. Obsolete ang gamit nila. We really like [na] palitan nila ang system of upgrading but not the new design. And they should have informed the office para [may] clearance after DOTC approves it," she said.

 

Earlier, LTO Metro Manila head Teofilo Guadiz III said the problem has affected all licenses including student, professional and non-professional.

 

Guadiz, in an interview on dzBB Wednesday, admitted the problem is affecting drivers who he said will be penalized for something that was not his or her fault.

 

"Ang hindi maka-renew magbabayad ng penalty sa bagay na wala silang kasalanan," he said. — RSJ, GMA News