DOTr expects LTO, winning bidder to address driver's license backlog issue

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is expecting the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and Banner Plastic Card, Incorporated to resolve the backlog issue surrounding the issuance of plastic driver licenses.

According to Transportation Undersecretary for Administration and Finance Kim Robert de Leon, the winning bidder that will supply the plastic cards will deliver one million plastic cards within the first 60 days from June 26 as part of the terms of reference.

Meanwhile, LTO Officer-in-Charge Hector Villacorta said that after the initial delivery is made, the supplier is expected to produce 1.5 million plastic per 60 days “until the 5.2-million backlog is met.”

Both de Leon and Villacorta expressed optimism that the backlogs on the license cards will be addressed immediately — with the latter saying that it is possible that the issue will be settled before the year ends.

“We expect the backlogs of the license cards to be addressed quickly. Our aim is to normalize the supply of the cards, so we will ensure that Banner delivers these cards efficiently,” de Leon said.

In addition, de Leon said that the soon-to-be released plastic cards, which will be produced locally (specifically in the company’s facility in Pasig) will have “no glaring difference” compared to the ones that the LTO previously issued as it will have the same security features.

Earlier, the LTO already extended the validity of driver’s licenses expiring on April 24-October 31 and is expected to launch a digitized version for its services such as renewal of permits, online registration and payment transactions at the agency.

Photos from Ruben Manahan IV, Land Transportation Office

Also read:

LTO not authorized to use daily collection for production of driver’s licenses, number plates

LTO drops periodic medical exam requirement for driver’s license holders

LTO eyes shortening driver’s license exam