Photo credit: LTO

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has successfully collected P986.5 million in revenue from penalties imposed on motorists caught for various traffic violations nationwide during the first semester of 2024.

LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II credited this substantial revenue to the strict enforcement of traffic laws, emphasizing the directive from Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista to enhance road safety across the country.

"The nearly P1 billion collection from fines and penalties alone reflects the dedication and hard work of our law enforcers and staff. Achieving this milestone underscores our commitment to ensuring the safety of all road users," remarked Assec Mendoza.

According to LTO data, a total of 330,073 motorists were apprehended from January 1 to June 30, 2024, underlining the agency's intensified efforts to promote road courtesy and discipline.

While not all offenders have settled their fines and penalties, the LTO has already collected P986.5 million within the same period.

"We anticipate this figure to rise as more offenders settle their dues promptly. We urge compliance as delayed payments will incur higher penalties," Mendoza urged.

Mendoza clarified, "Ideally, we want motorists to avoid fines altogether. However, maintaining road discipline is paramount for public safety and adherence to the rule of law."

The LTO aims to achieve a revenue target of P33 billion for 2024. With P17.9 billion already recorded from January to May 2024, marking a 34% increase from the previous year, Mendoza expressed confidence in meeting this ambitious goal.

Aside from fines and penalties, the LTO derives revenue from motor vehicle user charges and driver’s license transactions.