MANILA — The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has postponed its plan to impound e-bikes and e-trikes operating on national highways, following public complaints about the agency’s initial December 1 enforcement date.

LTO chief Markus Lacanilao said in a video statement on Sunday that the impounding operation will now begin on January 2, 2026, giving riders a one-month reprieve and allowing the agency more time to clarify the rules.

“There will be no impounding operation for the time being while we implement a comprehensive information drive,” Lacanilao said.

The LTO will issue updated guidelines to clearly define where light electric vehicles (LEVs) such as e-bikes and e-trikes are permitted and where they are prohibited. Enforcers will be stationed along major roads starting Monday, not to confiscate vehicles, but to educate riders on road rules.

“Ultimately, the LTO has only one goal—not to inconvenience the public, but to ensure that our roads are safe… including users of e-bikes, e-trikes, and other LEVs,” Lacanilao said.

The agency initially cited a spike in accidents involving e-bikes and e-trikes as the reason for the ban on their use along national highways.

(PNA)