Land Transportation Office (LTO) Officer-in-Charge Asec. Hector Villacorta joins Transportation (DOTr) Undersecretary for Administration and Finance Kim Robert in responding to the members of the media regarding the supply of the driver’s license cards that will be supplied by the winning bidder Banner Plastic Card, Inc. Photo courtesy of LTO
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is optimistic that the backlog of driver's licenses in the Philippines will soon be addressed as the contract for 5.2 million driver's license plastic cards has been signed and the Notice to Proceed has been issued to the winning bidder.
Transportation Undersecretary for Administration and Finance, Kim Robert De Leon, has announced that Banner Plastic Card, Inc. will be responsible for delivering up to 1 million plastic cards within the next 60 days as part of the initial shipment. This move aims to normalize the supply of driver's license cards and provide a swift resolution to the backlog.
"We expect the backlogs of the license cards to be addressed quickly. Our aim is to normalize the supply of the cards, so we will ensure that Banner delivers these cards efficiently," said Usec. De Leon.
The terms of reference state that Banner Plastic Card, Inc. is required to make its first delivery within 60 days from June 26, 2023. Usec. De Leon expressed confidence in the company's ability to meet this timeline.
While acknowledging that it may take some time for Banner to deliver the first set of plastic cards, Usec. De Leon assured the public that the DOTr is working diligently to catch up with the depleting supply of plastic cards.
"We are working with Banner to expedite the delivery of the license cards as soon as possible," Usec. De Leon stated.
In the meantime, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) has extended the validity of driver's licenses expiring on April 24 to October 31. Additionally, the LTO is expected to introduce a digitized version of its services, which will enable online renewal of permits, registration, and payment transactions.
The introduction of a digitalized system is expected to streamline processes and reduce reliance on physical plastic cards. This innovation will not only benefit drivers but also improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the LTO's operations.