Dumaguete: The new policy of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to allow the first-time registration of motor vehicles at the LTO Dumaguete District Office will be a big boost to traffic law enforcement here, the Provincial Highway Patrol Team (PHPT) said on Thursday.

According to Philippines News Agency, prior to this policy, vehicle owners typically registered their new vehicles outside the province, such as in Cebu or other areas. PHPT-Negros Oriental chief Police Executive Master Sgt. Aurelio Bodo emphasized that the new policy would also bolster the PHPT's initiatives against unregistered vehicles operating on public roads without the necessary documentation.

Bodo explained that, under existing regulations, motorcycles, cars, and other motor vehicles are prohibited from being on the roads unless they are duly registered. He noted that many motorcycle buyers experience significant delays in obtaining registration documents from dealers, resulting in some owners operating their vehicles without the required paperwork.

Consequently, numerous motorists have been apprehended during PHPT roadside operations. The new policy is expected to simplify the registration process for individuals purchasing motor vehicles, eliminating the need to travel outside the province for registration.

Bodo highlighted that the policy would make it easier for authorities to trace vehicle owners involved in accidents and criminal incidents. He welcomed the announcement made by Department of Transportation Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao, who also serves as LTO chief, during the inauguration and blessing of the LTO Dumaguete District Office.

Lacanilao stated that the office would soon be authorized to process first-time registrations of newly purchased motor vehicles in Negros Oriental.