Car, motorcycle dealers warned vs non-release of plates

MANILA, Philippines — Land Transportation Office (LTO) chief Vigor Mendoza II yesterday warned car and motorcycle dealers that they may face sanctions if they fail to release on time the license plates and Official Receipt/Certificate of Registration (OR/CR) to vehicle owners.

Mendoza said the LTO has initiated measures against errant car dealers who continue to defy the agency’s guidelines.

“We have an initial list of agents and their dealerships that were recommended for sanctions, including payment of fines and suspension of accreditation,” he said.

President Marcos has ordered the LTO and the Department of Transportation to address the backlog on license plates and other documents.

Malacañang emphasized that vehicle dealers must comply with the LTO’s prescribed processing timelines for the release of license plates for motor vehicles.

Based on the LTO data, Mendoza said at least 28 agents of motorcycle and car dealerships have been identified.

“The sanctions to be imposed on them have been submitted for resolution,” he said.

According to Mendoza, the penalties include fines of up to P500,000 and one month to six months suspension of accreditation.

“Let this serve as a warning to all agents and dealers to fulfill their obligation to their clients,” he said.

Mendoza urged owners of newly bought motor vehicles to immediately report to the LTO errant agents.

He said complaints may be sent to the LTO’s social media accounts or to AksyON THE SPOT at 0929-2920865.