What is LTO? A Comprehensive Overview to the Land Transportation Office

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The Land Transportation Office (LTO) operates under the Philippine Department of Transportation, overseeing all land transportation matters. 

Responsible for vehicle inspection, registration, license issuance, and enforcing transportation regulations, the LTO is dedicated to rationalizing services, implementing transportation laws, and prioritizing safety and comfort in land travel. 

As a frontline agency, it aspires to deliver fast and efficient public service, contributing to the progress of the land transport sector.

In this article, we will dive into the rich history of the LTO, explore job opportunities within the organization, and uncover more about its pivotal role in shaping the landscape of land transportation in the Philippines. 

Keep reading to discover the diverse job opportunities listed below.

Job Opportunities:

Explore jobs within the Land Transportation Office, where diverse and impactful positions await.

Join a dedicated team committed to ensuring safe and efficient land transportation, contributing to the nation’s mobility, and upholding road safety standards.

Each position at the LTO offers a unique opportunity to play a crucial role in shaping the country’s transportation landscape. 

Explore each role by clicking on the respective job title and take the first step toward a meaningful and rewarding career, whether you’re an experienced professional or an enthusiastic newcomer.

Explore the job openings at the LTO and other government agencies, and actively contribute to building a safer and more efficient transportation system for our communities! Seize the opportunity today.

History of LTO:

LTO

The complex history of land transportation regulation in the Philippines has seen several transformative stages, from the establishment of the Automobile Section in 1912 to the formation of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) in 1987. 

Each legislative milestone, organizational shift, and restructuring played a crucial role in shaping the contemporary framework governing the nation’s transportation system.

Automobile Section (1912-1933)

The regulatory journey began in 1912 with the enactment of Act No. 2159 under the American colonial Insular Government. 

This groundbreaking legislation aimed to regulate and license motor vehicle operators, laying the foundation for formal land transportation laws. Act No. 2159 led to the establishment of the Automobile Section under the Administrative Division of the Bureau of Public Works.

Building on this foundation, Act No. 3045 was introduced in 1926, consolidating and incorporating all existing laws related to motor vehicles. 

This legislative development prompted the upgrade of the Automobile Section to the Automobile Division within the Bureau of Public Works. 

The evolution continued in 1933 with Act No. 3992, the Revised Motor Vehicle Law, which not only amended Act No. 3045 but also led to the renaming of the Automobile Division as the Division of Motor Vehicles.

Motor Vehicles Office (1945-1964)

The post-World War II era witnessed significant restructuring in 1945 with the issuance of Department Order No. 4 by the Department of Public Works and Highways

This order facilitated the reorganization of the Division of Motor Vehicles, effective after the liberation of the Philippines from Japanese occupation. 

In 1947, Executive Order No. 94 played a pivotal role, elevating the Division of Motor Vehicles to the status of the Motor Vehicles Office (MVO), categorized as a Bureau.

However, the trajectory of the Motor Vehicles Office took an unexpected turn in 1964 with the enactment of Republic Act No. 4136, the Land Transportation and Traffic Code. 

This comprehensive legislation led to the abolition of the Motor Vehicles Office, aligning with a broader agenda to compile all laws relative to transportation and traffic rules. 

The Land Transportation and Traffic Code also marked the establishment of the Land Transportation Commission.

Land Transportation Commission (1964-1987)

Republic Act No. 4136 marked a turning point in land transportation governance, consolidating laws and setting the stage for the Land Transportation Commission. 

This body assumed responsibilities for the registration and operation of motor vehicles, licensing of conductors and drivers, and the establishment of regional offices across the archipelago. 

The powers previously vested in the Chief of Motor Vehicles were now executed by the Land Transportation Commissioner.

During the era of the Marcos dictatorship, Executive Order No. 546, promulgated in 1979, played a pivotal role in shaping the transportation landscape. 

This executive order led to the creation of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC). In tandem with this, the Land Transportation Commission underwent a name change, becoming the Bureau of Land Transportation and being absorbed into the newly established ministry.

Further organizational changes occurred in 1985 with Executive Order 1011, which nullified the Board of Transportation and the Bureau of Land Transportation. 

In their stead, the Land Transportation Commission was reestablished, with an expanded mandate that encompassed the registration and operation of motor vehicles, licensing of drivers and conductors, franchising of public utility vehicles, and the enforcement of land transportation rules and regulations.

Establishment of the Land Transportation Office (1987)

The year 1987 marked a significant chapter in the history of land transportation regulation. The Land Transportation Commission was abolished, giving rise to two distinct offices: the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB). 

The LTO inherited the functions of the former Bureau of Land Transportation, while the LTFRB assumed the responsibilities of the Board of Transportation. 

Concurrently, the Ministry of Transportation and Communications underwent a name change, becoming the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC).

Despite the numerous transformations, the core commitment to ensuring safety and comfort in land travel remained a consistent thread throughout the intricate history of land transportation regulation in the Philippines. 

Each legislative milestone and organizational shift played a crucial role in shaping the contemporary framework that governs the nation’s transportation system.

Mission:

“Rationalize the land transportation services and facilities and to effectively implement the various transportation laws, rules and regulations. It is the responsibility of those involved in the public service to be more vigilant in their part in the over-all development scheme of the national leadership. Hence, promotion of safety and comfort in land travel is a continuing commitment of the LTO.”

Vision:

“A frontline government agency showcasing fast and efficient public service for a progressive land transport sector.”

Mandate and Functions:

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) operates as a sectoral agency within the Department of Transportation (DOTr), as mandated by Executive Orders No. 125 and 125A dated April 13, 1987, and E.O No. 226 dated July 25, 1987. 

Its core responsibilities encompass registering motor vehicles, issuing driver’s and conductor’s licenses and permits, enforcing transportation laws, rules, and regulations, and adjudicating cases related to apprehensions. 

In line with its mandate, the LTO plays a pivotal role in overseeing and regulating various aspects of the country’s land transportation system, ensuring compliance and contributing to the safety and efficiency of the nation’s road networks.

Organizational Structure

In 1987, pursuant to Section 11 of Executive Order No. 125, a significant restructuring unfolded in the organizational landscape. 

The Regional Offices of the Land Transportation Commission were dissolved, and their functions seamlessly transitioned to the newly established Regional Offices for Land Transportation. 

This restructuring coincided with the renaming of the department as the Department of Transportation and Communication, and it was placed under the jurisdiction of the Secretary of Transportation and Communication.

Continuing the tradition set by the Land Transportation Commission, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) operates as an integral office within the Department of Transportation

The leadership is entrusted to the Assistant Secretary for Land Transportation, a key position filled through presidential appointment upon the recommendation of the Secretary.

The current composition of the LTO Board, vital to the decision-making processes, is detailed below:

Name of AgencyHead of Agency
OFFICE OF THE ASSISTANT SECRETARY
Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza IIAssistant Secretary/Chief of Office
Plate Making FacilityEngr. Norberto D. Espino III – Facility/Plant Manager
Planning StaffPrecious Marie C. Tondares – Chief
Strategic Communications Office (LTO-COMMS) and Central Public Assistance Office (CPAO)Jeanny Ann D. Torres – Chief
OFFICE OF THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Esteban M. Baltazar Jr., CESO VExecutive Director
ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISION
Louella V. Mutia (OIC)Chief Administrative Officer
Medical UnitDr. Joel V. Bascos – Chief
General Services SectionEngr. Eduardo C. Sevilla (OIC) – Chief
LTO Trunkline (PABX/Information)Engr. Marie Pauline Nicetas R. Malantic – Chief
Ground & Building Maintenance UnitEngr. Nelson J. Lucas – Chief
Records UnitMa. Perpetua Felicidad R. Ubaldo (OIC) – Chief
Motor Transport UnitErnesto B. Lopez – Chief
GSS Records UnitJossie M. Borja – Chief
Property SectionMa. Clarissa G. Ogsimer(OIC) – Chief
EquipmentMichael H. Marquez(OIC) – Chief
Plate UnitNivette Amber M. Pastorite (OIC) – Chief
Supply UnitArnel P. Velarde – Chief
Human Resource Development SectionLady Lyn G. Funderanan (OIC) – Chief
Public Assistance and Complaints CenterClarence Ignatius Briones – Chief
Learning and Development UnitLady Lyn G. Funderanan – Chief
Performance Management UnitMary May M. Jacob – Chief
Rewards and Recognition UnitRosanna A. Parica – Chief
Recruitment, Selection and Placement UnitMary Jonne T. Auza – Chief
FINANCE DIVISION
Marivic E. Lopez – Chief
Accounting SectionSheila D. Rodriguez – Chief
Budget SectionAsuncion S. Cruz – Chief
Treasury SectionEufrecina D. Balon – Chief
Disbursement UnitDianne Rosales – Chief
Collection UnitCarminda V. Costales – Chief
Financial ControllerJessalyn Bascugin – Financial Controller
MANAGEMENT DIVISION
Emerita O. Soliven – Chief
LAW ENFORCEMENT SERVICE
Francis Ray A. Almora, CESO VI (OIC) – Chief
Clearance and Custodial Section Data Control UnitBelinda C. Melendrez – Chief
Data Control UnitAgnes L. Ganzon – Chief
Field Enforcement DivisionFarish H. Lim (OIC) – Chief
Intelligence and Investigation DivisionRenante G. Melitante (OIC) – Chief
Traffic Safety Training and Advocacy SectionEmerita O. Soliven – Chief
Traffic Safety Research SectionChief
Traffic Adjudication ServiceEsteban M. Baltazar, CESO V – Chief
MANAGEMENT INFORMATION DIVISION
Claudio B. Bonsol Jr. (Acting) – Chief
Computer SectionClaudio B. Bonsol Jr. – Chief
Records SectionMa. Perpetua Felicidad R. Ubaldo OIC – Chief
Client Care and Technical Support SectionCarlos Nicholas J. Vasquez (OIC) – Chief
OPERATIONS DIVISION
Danilo J. Encela – Chief
License SectionRichard M. Cortez – Chief
Registration SectionMercedita E. Gutierrez – Chief
Central Command CenterEngr. Oliver C. Marique – Chief
Technical Evaluation SectionIsmael L. Luoang – Chief
COMMISSION ON AUDIT
Nenita Talion – Resident Auditor

Branches:

In its commitment to providing comprehensive services across the nation, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) has strategically established numerous branches spanning various regions of the Philippines. 

This extensive network ensures accessibility and convenience for individuals and entities seeking LTO services, contributing to the efficient management of land transportation matters throughout the country. 

Explore the diverse locations below to find the nearest LTO branch in your region.

RegionLocation
Region IAguila Road, Brgy. Sevilla, San Fernando City, La Union
Region IISan Gabriel, Tuguegarao, Cagayan
Region IIIGovernment Center, Brgy. Maimpis, City of San Fernando, Pampanga
Region IVAJ. C. Abadilla Memorial Bldg., Old City Hall Compound, B. Morada Ave., Lipa City Batangas
Region IVB (MIMAROPA)LTO Compd., East Avenue, QC
Region VRegional Govt. Center Site, Rawis, Legaspi City
Region VITabuc-Suba, Jaro, Iloilo City
Region VIINatalio Bacalso Avenue, Cebu City
Region VIIIOld Army Road, Tacloban City
Region IXVeterans Ave., Zamboanga City/Balangasan St., Pagadian
Region XMVIS Compound, Zone 7, Bulua, Cagayan de Oro City
Region XIQuimpo Blvd., Davao City
Region XIIARMM Compound, Cotabato City/No. 79 G. Del Pilar St., Koronadal City, South Cotabato
National Capital Region (NCR)#20 G. Araneta Avenue, Brgy. Sto Domingo, Q.C.
Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR)Engineer’s Hill, Baguio City/2nd Flr., Post Office Loop, Session Road, Baguio City
CaragaJ. Rosales Avenue, Butuan City

Contact Details:

For any inquiries or feedback, you can reach out to us at the following email addresses:

  • LTOCO.FEEDBACK@GMAIL.COM
  • C3@LTO.GOV.PH

Additionally, you can contact their Central Command Center at the given number: 1-342-586.

Conclusion:

To sum it up, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) is a key player in keeping things moving smoothly across the Philippines. 

With offices spread nationwide, they make essential services like vehicle registration and license issuance accessible to everyone. 

It’s not just about paperwork; the LTO actively works to ensure safe and well-organized transportation.

For those on the job hunt, the LTO is a hub of opportunities. They offer various roles in different locations, and they’re eager to welcome individuals like you to their team. 

Take a look at the job listings, find a role that matches your skills, and consider being part of the crew that contributes to safe and efficient transportation.

Disclaimer:

The Philippine Go does not collect fees and is not a hiring agency, nor is it related to any hiring agency for employment abroad. 

All information contained here is solely for informational purposes and rightfully belongs to its rightful owner. 

Attached in the last section of the content are references for further verification, if needed. Read more

Reference:

1. Land Transportation Office. (n.d.). Historical Background. Retrieved from [https://lto.gov.ph/historical-background/]

2. Land Transportation Office – Wikipedia. (n.d.). Retrieved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Land_Transportation_Office_(Philippines)]

3. Land Transportation Office. (n.d.). Mission and Vision. Retrieved from [https://lto.gov.ph/mission-and-vision/]

4. Land Transportation Office. (n.d.). Mandate and Functions. Retrieved from [https://lto.gov.ph/mandate-and-functions/]