LTO 7 goes after illegal plates

CEBU, Philippines – The Land Transportation Office (LTO) regional office is now going after its own members who are using expired commemorative plates.

The LTO wants these plates removed from motor vehicles.

Aden Belza, LTO chief for operations, told The FREEMAN that he received information when he was in Manila last week that some of the commemorative plates of the Law Enforcer Association of the Philippines (LEAP) are being used in some vehicles in the region.

LEAP is a national organization within the LTO, whose commemorative plates are expired.

"Owners of motor vehicles sporting this commemorative plate are advised to remove the plate," Belza said.

He added that a fine ranging from P2,000 to P5,000 will be imposed on violators.

LEAP's commemorative plate ceased to be valid last July 31, 2100.

As of now, there are about 10 authorized commemorative plates in the country.

LTO has implemented a policy on the use of commemorative plates as part of the government's effort to continue the implementation of its "no plate, no travel" policy.

Under this policy, a commemorative plate shall be installed in front of a motor vehicle, either at the right side or left side of the regular plate.

The regular plate shall be maintained in the space provided for the purpose.

The policy also states that removal of the regular plate is a violation, with a corresponding fine. (FREEMAN)