Bicol: The Land Transportation Office in Bicol (LTO-5) has issued a warning to over 50 active driving schools in the region, emphasizing the need to strictly adhere to the requirements of the theoretical driving course (TDC) for aspiring drivers. In a recent interview, LTO-5 spokesperson Jamie Roperes highlighted that stricter audit and inspection measures will be implemented in response to reports of driving schools issuing certificates to students who have not completed classes or passed the necessary assessments.
According to Philippines News Agency, the instruction from LTO-5 Regional Director Edgar Allan Castillejos mandates that all district and extension office chiefs conduct monthly audits of all driving institutions within their respective jurisdictions. Roperes explained that inspection teams, consisting of an assistant chief and a license evaluator, will carry out these inspections at all driving schools. The findings from these inspections will be documented and evaluated, serving as the basis for issuing show cause orders and imposing appropriate administrative penalties on non-compliant institutions.
Roperes further stated that the LTO is validating reports of violations that compromise road safety and undermine the agency's integrity. Continuous monitoring and inspections will be conducted across all districts and extension offices, reaffirming LTO Bicol's commitment to maintaining a credible and safe licensing system for everyone.
In line with these efforts, Roperes announced that LTO-5 has conducted a series of free TDC seminars across the region as part of the nationwide observance of Road Safety Month 2025. In Camarines Sur, the LTO Pamplona District Office and LTO Pili Extension Office held a free TDC from May 24 to 25, while the LTO Partido District Office conducted its seminar on May 22 and 23 in Brgy. Maymatan, Goa. Meanwhile, the LTO Sorsogon District Office organized a free TDC and a road safety seminar for 182 students at Sorsogon College of Criminology Inc. on May 22 and 23. In Masbate, the LTO Masbate District Office provided a 15-hour free TDC for student permit applicants on May 23 and 24. The Legazpi District Office also held its free TDC on May 22 and 23, resulting in 45 out of 46 participants successfully obtaining their student permits after completing the course.
Roperes emphasized that these initiatives demonstrate LTO Bicol's commitment to ensuring safer roads by equipping future drivers with the necessary knowledge and values for responsible driving.
