In addition, motorists who violate traffic laws are now given 15 working days, instead of 15 calendar days, to settle their licenses.
In a memorandum released on January 9, 2026, Lopez instructed the LTO to suspend the confiscation of licenses and to review all arrest policies to ensure uniform implementation.
(Picture of LTO)
Lopez also amended the fine payment rules for traffic law violations from 15 calendar days to 15 working days. This extension is said to provide the government and the public ample time to resolve the case. It also implies that holidays and long weekends will not be included in the count of days for the driver to fix or pay the fine.
Although licenses will not be confiscated, the LTO will place them on alert status. This will facilitate the immediate automatic suspension or invalidation of the license if the driver fails to pay the fine or resolve the case within 15 days.
