THE Land Transportation Office in Davao Region (LTO-Davao) is reviewing its driver’s license application process in light of the increasing number of road accidents.
Yuri Lim, head of LTO-Davao’s Regional Law Enforcement Section (RLES), said they are closely examining current procedures and requirements for obtaining a driver’s license. This move comes after data showed that most road incidents stem from human error rather than mechanical failure.
“Inaantay nalang po namin kung ano yung final sa technical working group from the central office, and of course i-cascade throughout the district offices (We’re just waiting for the final guidelines from the Technical Working Group at the central office, which will then be cascaded to all district offices),” Lim said during the Kapehan sa Dabaw press briefing on Monday, May 19, 2025, at SM City Davao.
He emphasized that a lack of driver discipline, particularly distracted driving due to mobile phone use, is a major factor in many accidents.
In Davao City, LTO offices handle 500 to 700 transactions daily, including driver’s license and vehicle registration applications. These numbers spike near the end of the month or before deadlines.
To address road safety concerns, LTO-Davao has formed a task force to carry out large-scale inspections. Two inspection teams are deployed weekly for surprise checks of Public Utility Vehicles (PUVs) in their garages. These teams include personnel from LTO and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB). Any defective vehicles are barred from operating until issues are resolved.
A memorandum has also been issued to strengthen the road safety awareness campaign nationwide. District offices are now required to engage with PUJ drivers, taxi and bus operators, and other motorists. Outreach efforts are also underway with trucker groups and schools to educate future road users. Additionally, grassroots campaigns and barangay caravans are being rolled out to promote responsible driving.
Lim also noted that poor road conditions contribute to accidents. Newly opened roads or bypass routes—often lacking streetlights and traffic signs—have become hotspots for drag racing and social media stunts.
Older routes like Buda Road and the Panacan-to-Lasang stretch are also being assessed for possible improvements such as additional lighting and signage.
On Monday morning, five individuals were injured in a road crash at 5:50 a.m. along the Davao-Bukidnon National Highway in Sitio Pagan, Barangay Marilog. Another fatal incident occurred on May 18 at 2:55 p.m. along the Daang Maharlika Highway in Kilometer 27, Licanan, Lasang. RGP