E-bike drivers in Dagupan City spent Monday, December 1, 2025, adjusting their routes and earnings after the Land Transportation Office (LTO) began enforcing a policy that bars e-vehicles from national highways.

Drivers usually earn around P200 to P300 a day. But with their access to major roads restricted, they said their income has dropped.

Domingo Corla, an e-bike driver, said they fear getting caught on the highway.

“Mahuli kami, kawawa naman kami. Walang pambili ng mamakain, kawawa mga bata,” he said.

Another driver, Robert Perez, said they only stay on the roadside and hope authorities understand their situation.

“Kung tutuusin sana, maunawaan naman nila kami. Nasa gilid lang naman kami ng kalsada,” he said.

The LTO announced that while the highway ban is already effective, impounding of apprehended e-vehicles is suspended for now. LTO Chief Asec. Markus Lacanilao said this is in response to public concerns.

“At bilang tugon sa inyong panawagan, narinig po ni PBBM ang inyong kahilingan kaya suspendido muna ang impounding ng mga e-vehicles ngayong araw,” he said.

Lacanilao added said the agency will conduct a wide information drive starting December 1.

“Simula December 1, magiging visible ang LTO sa mga kalsada para ipaliwanag ang tamang paggamit ng LEVs,” he said.

The LTO said it will begin full enforcement, including apprehension and impounding, starting January 2, 2026. The agency said the policy aims to keep roads safe and orderly, not to burden the public.