Traffic law in the Philippines

Rules of the road in the Philippines

The Land Transportation Office, which is responsible for the regulation and enforcement of land transportation rules and regulations.

Traffic law in the Philippines consists of multiple laws that govern the regulation and management of road transportation and the conduct of road users within the country.

The official and latest traffic code of the Philippines is Republic Act No. 4136, also known as the "Land Transportation and Traffic Code", which was enacted into law on June 20, 1964.[1]

## Applicable laws

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The following table lists all Philippine laws applicable to the governance of road transportation and road users across the Philippines or in specific major areas within the country.

Designation  | Date passed  | Title  | Status  | Scope

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List of national traffic laws  Act No. 3045  | March 10, 1922  | Motor Vehicle Law  | Repealed by RA 4136  | Establishes a law regulating motor vehicle traffic and requiring the registration of motor vehicles and licensing of motor vehicle drivers.[2]
Act No. 3992  | December 3, 1932  | Revised Motor Vehicle Law  | Repealed by RA 4136  | Revises provisions in Act No. 3045. Some of these changes include changes to definitions, penalties, and speed limits. [3]
RA 2000  | June 22, 1957  | Limited Access Highway Act  | In effect  | Authorizes the construction of limited-access highways and defines traffic laws applicable to users of limited-access highways.[4]
RA 4136  | June 20, 1964  | Land Transportation and Traffic Code  | In effect  | National traffic code. Covers the regulation and licensing of owners, dealers, conductors, drivers, and similar matters of motor vehicles, as well as the traffic laws that apply only to motor vehicles.[1] This act is based on Act No. 3992 and repeals it.[3]
PD 96  | January 13, 1973  | Presidential Decree No. 96  | In effect  | Prohibits and penalizes the usage of sirens, horns, or other similar gadgets with "exceptionally loud or startling sound" on motor vehicles and restricts such usage to authorized government vehicles.[5]
RA 8750  | August 5, 1999  | Seat Belts Use Act of 1999  | In effect  | Mandates the inclusion of seat belts on private and public motor vehicles, excluding tricycles and motorcycles.[6]
RA 10054  | July 27, 2009  | Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009  | In effect  | Mandates the wearing of a standard motorcycle helmet for riders and backriders of motorcycles.[7]
RA 10586  | July 23, 2012  | Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013  | In effect  | Penalizes driving under the influence of alcohol, dangerous drugs, and other substances.[8]
RA 10666  | July 28, 2014  | Children's Safety on Motorcycles Act of 2015  | In effect  | Regulates the backriding of children onboard on public roads with heavy and fast moving traffic.[9]
RA 10913  | July 27, 2015  | Anti-Distracted Driving Act | In effect  | Defines and penalizes distracted driving, particularly with electronics such as mobile phones.[10]
RA 10916  | July 27, 2015  | Road Speed Limiter Act of 2016  | In effect  | Prohibits the registration and operation of any covered motor vehicle without a speed limiter device.[11]
RA 11697  | April 15, 2022  | Electric Vehicle Industry Act (EVIDA)  | In effect  | Defines policies and responsibilities to create an enabling environment for the development of electric vehicles and micromobility.[12]
Designation  | Date passed  | Title  | Status  | Scope

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|
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List of department-level traffic issuances and orders  DPWC AO No. 1 s. 1968  | February 19, 1968  | Revised Rules and Regulations Governing Limited Access Highways  | Amended by DPWH DO No. 123 s. 2001  | An administrative order issued by the Department of Public Works and Communications (now the Department of Public Works and Highways), by virtue of RA 2000, defining traffic rules and regulations governing limited-access highways.[13]
DPWH DO No. 123 s. 2001  | July 18, 2001  | Revised Rules and Regulations Governing Limited Access Highways  | In effect  | Amends provisions in DPWC AO 1 s. 1968 to allow motorcycles on limited access highways and defines rules and regulations specific to motorcycles on such highways.[14]
LTO AHS 2008-015  | May 15, 2008  | Rules and Regulations for the Use and Operation of Motorcycles on Highways  | In effect  | Defines traffic rules and regulations for motorcycles on roads and highways.[15]
JAO 2014-01  | June 2, 2014  | Revised Schedule of Fines and Penalties for Violations of Laws, Rules and Regulations Governing Land Transportation  | In effect  | Additional fines and penalties for the violation of land transportation traffic laws.[16]
JMC 2018-01  | January 17, 2018  | Guidelines and Standards for the Classifications of Roads, Setting of Speed Limits Under Republic Act No. 4136, and Collection of Road Crash Data  | In effect  | Standardizes speed limits to be based on road classification and empowers local government units to collect road crash data and set local speed limits on local roads.[17]
DOTr DO No. 2020-14  | August 25, 2020  | Guidelines and Protocols for Active Transportation and Light Mobility Vehicles  | In effect  | Establishes and prescribes road safety protocols and penalties for motor vehicles, bicycles, and other non-motorized transport on the road.[18]
LTO AO No. 2021-039  | May 11, 2021  | Consolidated Guidelines in the Classification, Registration and Operation of All Types of Electric Motor Vehicles  | Partially suspended[19] | Defines, classifies, and regulates the operation, registration, and related penalties of electric motor vehicles, including electric cars, electric bicycles, and mobility scooters.[20]
LTO AO No. VDM-2024-044  | February 21, 2024  | Amended Consolidated Guidelines in the Classification, Registration and Operation of All Types of Electric Vehicles  | Partially suspended[19] | Amends and revises sections of LTO AO No. 2021-039 for light electric vehicles.[21]

The following laws are only applicable to the Metro Manila area.

Designation  | Date passed  | Title  | Status  | Scope

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|
|
|

List of Metro Manila traffic laws  Joint Metro Manila Traffic Circular No. 01  | February 1, 2023  | Metro Manila Traffic Code of 2023  | In effect  | Regional traffic code for Metro Manila covering unified traffic rules, regulations, ticketing, and penalties.[22]

Since its enactment in 1964, there have been 12 amendments to RA 4136, the latest being in 2017.

Designation  | Date passed  | Title  | Scope

|
|
|

List of amendments to RA 4136  RA 5715  | June 21, 1969  | An Act Amending Section Thirty-four of Republic Act Numbered Four Thousand One Hundred Thirty-six  | Amends RA 4136 by allowing reflectors in place of lights when parked and requiring either of them for vehicle registration.[23]
PD 382  | January 28, 1974  | Extending the Period for Registration of All for Hire Motor Vehicles, Amending for the Purpose Sub-paragraph 1, Paragraph (B), of Section 5, Republic Act Numbered 4136, as Amended  | Amends RA 4136 by extending the period for vehicle registration.[24]
PD 843  | December 12, 1975  | Amending Republic Act No. 4136, as Amended, Otherwise Known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code by Increasing the Annual Registration Fee on Private Automobiles and Imposing an Ad Valorem Tax Thereon, and for Other Purposes  | Amends RA 4136 by increasing registration fees and imposing excise tax.[25]
PD 896  | February 26, 1976  | Further Amending Republic Act No. 4136, Otherwise Known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code  | Amends RA 4136 by updating the registration fees and schedule for registration.[26]
PD 1057  | November 30, 1976  | Further Amending Republic Act No. 4136, Otherwise Known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code  | Amends RA 4136 by including vehicles owned by GOCCs for registration.[27]
BP 74  | June 11, 1980  | An Act Amending Certain Sections Of Republic Act Numbered Forty-one Hundred and Thirty-six, Otherwise Known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code  | Amends the compulsory vehicle registration sections of RA 4136.[28]
BP 398  | May 18, 1983  | An Act Amending Certain Sections of Republic Act Numbered Forty-one Hundred and Thirty-six, Otherwise Known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code  | Amends RA 4136 by requiring the possession of the driver's license and updating driver's licensing classifications.[29]
PD 1934  | June 11, 1984  | Amending Certain Sections of Republic Act Numbered Forty One Hundred And Thirty Six Otherwise Known As The Land Transportation and Traffic Code  | Amends RA 4136 by updating its annual vehicle registration fees and a road users' charge.[30]
PD 1950  | September 5, 1984  | Amending Certain Sections of Presidential Decree No. 1934, Amending Republic Act No. 4136  | Adjustments to the road users' charge in PD 1934, which amends RA 4136.[31]
EO 43 s. 1986  | August 22, 1986  | Restructuring The Private Motor Vehicle Tax  | Restructures the Motor Vehicle User's Charge.[32]
RA 8794  | June 27, 2000  | An Act Imposing A Motor Vehicle User's Charge On Owners Of All Types Of Motor Vehicles And For Other Purposes  | Further amends RA 4136 and nationalizes the implementation of the Motor Vehicle User's Charge implemented in BP 74 and EO 43 s. 1986.[33]
RA 10930  | July 25, 2017  | An Act Rationalizing and Strengthening the Policy Regarding Driver's License by Extending the Validity Period of Drivers' Licenses, and Penalizing Acts in Violation of Its Issuance and Application Amending for Those Purposes Section 23 of Republic Act No. 4136, as Amended by Batas Pambansa Blg. 398 and Executive Order No. 1011, Otherwise Known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code  | Amends RA 4136 with updated clauses on the validity and registration of driver's licenses and related penalties.[34]

## Definitions and coverage

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### Vehicles

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Motor vehicles are defined by RA 4136 and the Metro Manila Traffic Code as any vehicle propelled by any power other than human power. Exceptions to this definition include vehicles on railway tracks, motor vehicles such as road rollers, trolley cars, street sweepers, sprinklers, lawn mowers, bulldozers, graders, forklifts, amphibian trucks, and cranes when not on public roads, as well as tractors, trailers, and vehicles with traction engines used exclusively for agriculture. In addition, trailers with any number of wheels propelled or intended to be proplled by a motor vehicle are classified as a separate motor vehicle.[1][22]

Regulations for the use of bicycles and other non-motorized vehicles are defined by the DOTr in Department Order No. 2020-14.[18]

#### Motor vehicle classifications

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Motor vehicles in the Philippines are classified by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) according to vehicle category classifications established by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE).[35] Vehicles are classified according to whether they are propelled by diesel, electric, or gasoline powered motor engines, as well as maximum design speed and vehicle weight. Electric motor vehicles are classified in a similar manner, but are subject to additional criteria based on power output, particularly for light electric vehicles (LEVs), which have added restrictions and exemptions.[20]

Electric vehicles were first classified on May 11, 2021 with the issuance of LTO Administrative Order No. 2021-039. This order integrated purely electric-powered vehicles into the existing vehicle category classification system and introduced specific requirements for LEVs, delineating restrictions on allowed roads, registration and licensing requirements, and the requirement of motorcycle or bicycle helmet.[20]

In 2024, LTO Administrative Order No. VDM-2024-044 revised these classification guidelines, allowing LEVs to operate on all public highways, excluding expressways, provided they are registered with the LTO and operated by appropriately licensed drivers. Certain classifications were also removed, and all two-wheeled vehicles were required to use motorcycle helmets.[21]

As of October 2024, provisions concerning the licensing, registration, and restrictions of LEVs in both LTO Administrative Order No. 2021-039 and LTO Administrative order No. VDM-2024-044 have been suspended following a directive from the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to review all LTO issuances that are inconsistent with the Electric Vehicle Industry Act (RA 11697).[19]

Electric Scooter and Category L EV classifications (2021 – 2024)[20] Category  | Specifications  | Restrictions

|
|

Road restrictions  | Helmet requirement  | Driver's license restrictions  | Vehicle registration
Personal Mobility Scooter |

* Two, three, or four wheeled electric vehicle with or without pedals
* Maximum design speed not exceeding 12.5 km/h (7.8 mph)
* Powered by up to 300 W

* Limited to private roads, barangay roads, bicycle lanes, and walkways

| Bicycle helmet  | Not required  | Not required
Electric Kick Scooter | —  |

* Limited to private roads, barangay roads, and bicycle lanes

| Motorcycle helmet  | Not required  | Not required
Category L1a
e-Bike |

* Two-wheeled electric vehicle
* Maximum design speed not exceeding 25 km/h (16 mph)

* Limited to private roads, barangay roads, and bicycle lanes
* May cross other roads
* Not for public transport use

| Bicycle helmet  | Not required  | Not required
Category L1b
e-Bike |

* Two-wheeled electric vehicle
* Maximum design speed not exceeding 50 km/h (31 mph)

* Limited to private roads, barangay roads, and outermost lanes on local roads
* May cross other roads
* Not for public transport use

| Motorcycle helmet  | Not required  | Not required
Category L2a
Two-wheeled e-Moped |

* Three-wheeled electric vehicle
* Maximum design speed not exceeding 25 km/h (16 mph)

* Limited to private roads, barangay roads, and bicycle lanes
* May cross other roads
* Not for public transport use

| Bicycle helmet  | Not required  | Not required
Category L2b
Two-wheeled e-Moped |

* Three-wheeled electric vehicle
* Maximum design speed not exceeding 50 km/h (31 mph)

* Limited to private roads, barangay roads, and local roads on outermost lanes
* May cross other roads
* Not for public transport use

| Motorcycle helmet  | A restriction  | Required
Category L3
Motorcycle |

* Two-wheeled electric vehicle
* Maximum design speed exceeding 50 km/h (31 mph)

* Allowed on all roads excluding limited-access highways[Note 1]

| Motorcycle helmet  | A restriction  | Required
Category L4
Asymmetric Three Wheeled Vehicle |

* Three-wheeled asymmetrical (with sidecar) electric vehicle
* Maximum design speed not exceeding 50 km/h (31 mph)
* Electric variants with a maximum curb vehicle weight of 600 kilograms (1,300 lb) and powered by at least 1000 W

* Limited to barangay, local, and tertiary roads
* May cross other roads
* May be authorized by LGUs to traverse national highways or main thoroughfares on outer lanes only

| Not required  | A1 restriction  | Required
Category L5
Symmetric Three Wheeled Vehicle |

* Three-wheeled symmetrical electric vehicle
* Maximum design speed not exceeding 50 km/h (31 mph)
* Electric variants with a maximum curb vehicle weight of 600 kilograms (1,300 lb) and powered by at least 1000 W

| Not required  | A1 restriction  | Required
Category L6
Light Quadricycle |

* Four-wheeled electric vehicles with a maximum design speed of 45 km/h (28 mph)
* Gasoline and diesel variants with an unladen vehicle weight up to 350 kilograms (0.35 t)
* Electric variants with a maximum curb vehicle weight of 350 kilograms (770 lb) and powered by up to 4000 W

| Not required  | A1 restriction  | Required
Category L7
Heavy Quadricycle |

* Four-wheeled electric vehicles with an unladen vehicle weight of 350 to 550 kilograms (0.35 to 0.55 t)
* Maximum design speed of 45 km/h (28 mph)
* Electric variants with a maximum curb vehicle weight of 350 to 550 kilograms (770 to 1,210 lb) and powered by up to 15000 W

| Not required  | A1 restriction  | Required
Electric Scooter and Category L EV classifications (as of 2024)[21] Category  | Specifications  | Restrictions

|
|

Road restrictions  | Helmet requirement  | Driver's license restrictions  | Vehicle registration
Electric Mobility Scooter |

* Two, three, or four wheeled electric vehicle with or without pedals
* Maximum design speed not exceeding 12.5 km/h (7.8 mph)
* Powered by less than 300 W

| Allowed on all roads excluding limited-access highways  | Motorcycle helmet  | A restriction  | Required
Category L1
Two-wheeled Moped |

* Two wheeled electric vehicle with or without pedals
* Maximum design speed not exceeding 50 km/h (31 mph)

| Motorcycle helmet  | A restriction  | Required
Category L2
Three-wheeled Moped |

* Three wheeled electric vehicle with or without pedals
* Maximum design speed not exceeding 50 km/h (31 mph)

| Not required  | A restriction  | Required
Category L3
Motorcycle |

* Two-wheeled electric vehicle
* Maximum design speed exceeding 50 km/h (31 mph)

| Motorcycle helmet  | A restriction  | Required
Category L4
Asymmetric Three Wheeled Vehicle |

* Three-wheeled asymmetrical (with sidecar) electric vehicle with a maximum curb vehicle weight of 600 kilograms (1,300 lb)
* Maximum design speed not exceeding 50 km/h (31 mph)
* Powered by least 1000 W

| Not required  | A1 restriction  | Required
Category L5
Symmetric Three Wheeled Vehicle |

* Three-wheeled symmetrical electric vehicle with a maximum curb vehicle weight of 600 kilograms (1,300 lb)
* Maximum design speed not exceeding 50 km/h (31 mph)
* Powered by at least 1000 W

| Not required  | A1 restriction  | Required
Category L6
Light Quadricycle |

* Four-wheeled electric vehicle with a maximum curb vehicle weight of 350 kilograms (770 lb)
* Maximum design speed not exceeding 45 km/h (28 mph)
* Powered by up to 4000 W

| Not required  | A1 restriction  | Required
Category L7
Heavy Quadricycle |

* Four-wheeled electric vehicle with a maximum curb vehicle weight of 350 to 550 kilograms (770 to 1,210 lb)
* Maximum design speed of 45 km/h (28 mph)
* Powered by up to 15000 W

| Not required  | A1 restriction  | Required
Category L classifications (non-EV)  Category  | Specifications  | Restrictions

|
|

Road restrictions  | Helmet requirement  | Driver's license restrictions  | Vehicle registration
Category L1
Two-wheeled Moped |

* Two wheeled diesel or gasoline vehicle with or without pedals
* Maximum design speed not exceeding 50 km/h (31 mph)

| Allowed on all roads excluding limited-access highways  | Motorcycle helmet  | A restriction  | Required
Category L2
Three-wheeled Moped |

* Three wheeled diesel or gasoline vehicle with or without pedals
* Maximum design speed not exceeding 50 km/h (31 mph)

| Not required  | A restriction  | Required
Category L3
Motorcycle |

* Two-wheeled diesel or gasoline vehicle
* Maximum design speed exceeding 50 km/h (31 mph)

| Allowed on all roads excluding limited-access highways, with exceptions[Note 2] | Motorcycle helmet  | A restriction  | Required
Category L4
Asymmetric Three Wheeled Vehicle |

* Three-wheeled asymmetrical (with sidecar) diesel or gasoline vehicle with a maximum curb vehicle weight of 600 kilograms (1,300 lb)
* Maximum design speed not exceeding 50 km/h (31 mph)

| Allowed on all roads excluding limited-access highways  | Not required  | A1 restriction  | Required
Category L5
Symmetric Three Wheeled Vehicle |

* Three-wheeled symmetrical diesel or gasoline vehicle with a maximum curb vehicle weight of 600 kilograms (1,300 lb)
* Maximum design speed not exceeding 50 km/h (31 mph)

| Not required  | A1 restriction  | Required
Category L6
Light Quadricycle |

* Four-wheeled diesel or gasoline vehicle with a maximum curb vehicle weight of 350 kilograms (770 lb)
* Maximum design speed not exceeding 45 km/h (28 mph)

| Not required  | A1 restriction  | Required
Category L7
Heavy Quadricycle |

* Four-wheeled diesel or gasoline vehicle with a maximum curb vehicle weight of 350 to 550 kilograms (770 to 1,210 lb)
* Maximum design speed of 45 km/h (28 mph)

| Not required  | A1 restriction  | Required
Category M and N classifications (EV and non-EV)  Category  | Specifications  | Restrictions

|
|

Road restrictions  | Driver's license restrictions  | Vehicle registration
Category M1
Car, Van, and SUV |

* Electric, diesel, and gasoline vehicles with not more than 8 passenger seats
* Gasoline and diesel variants with a gross vehicle weight up to 5,000 kilograms (5.0 t)
* Electric variants with a gross vehicle weight up to 3.5 metric tons (3,500 kg)

| Allowed on all roads including limited-access highways  | B restriction  | Required
Category M2
Utility Vehicle and Jeepney |

* Electric, diesel, and gasoline vehicles with more than 8 passenger seats
* Gasoline and diesel variants with a gross vehicle weight up to 5,000 kilograms (5.0 t)
* Electric variants with a gross vehicle weight of 3.500 to 5.000 kilograms (7.716 to 11.023 lb)

| B1 restriction  | Required
Category M3
Bus and e-Bus |

* Electric, diesel, and gasoline passenger vehicles with more than 8 seats
* Gross vehicle weight exceeding 5,000 kilograms (5.0 t)

| D restriction  | Required
Category N1
Truck |

* Electric, diesel, and gasoline vehicles carrying goods with a gross vehicle weight up to 3,500 kilograms (3.5 t)

| C restriction  | Required
Category N2
Truck |

* Electric, diesel, and gasoline vehicles carrying goods with a gross vehicle weight of 3,500 to 12,000 kilograms (3.5 to 12.0 t)

| C restriction  | Required
Category N3
Truck |

* Electric, diesel, and gasoline vehicles carrying goods with a gross vehicle weight exceeding 12,000 kilograms (12 t)

| C restriction  | Required
Category O1
Articulated Car |

* Articulated gasoline and diesel vehicles with a gross vehicle weight up to 750 kilograms (0.75 t)

| BE restriction  | Required
Category O2
Articulated Car |

* Articulated gasoline and diesel vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of 750 to 3,500 kilograms (0.75 to 3.50 t)

| BE restriction  | Required
Category O3
Articulated Truck |

* Articulated gasoline and diesel vehicles with a gross vehicle weight exceeding 3,500 kilograms (3.5 t)

| CE restriction  | Required

### Roads

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All public roads and highways, defined as thoroughfares, boulevards, driveways, avenues, parks, and alleys are covered by RA 4136. This does not include corridors within private property or any institutions.[1]

Republic Act No. 917 or the Philippine Highway Act of 1953 prohibits highways, bridges, or right-of-ways covered by RA 4136 from being obstructed, or from being usurped or converted to private use. The act also prohibits the removal or tampering of road infrastructure such as markers, signs, and other road-side facilities.[36]

RA 4136 also applies to limited-access highways, more commonly known as expressways, alongside additional traffic laws and restrictions provided by Republic Act No. 2000 and DPWC Administrative Order No. 1 series of 1968.

In Metro Manila, the Metro Manila Traffic Code covers all roads and public places within the metro.[22]

### Parking

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Under RA 4136 and the Metro Manila Traffic Code, a motor vehicle is considered to be parked when it has been stopped on the shoulder or edge of a highway for an "appreciable" period of time. A motor vehicle stopping to unload passengers or cargo is not considered to be parked if the vehicle moves away "without delay".[1][22]

RA 4136 states that parking a vehicle — by leaving it attended or unattended for an "appreciable" period of time — is prohibited inside an intersection or within 6 m (20 ft) of it, in front of a private driveway, on a pedestrian crossing, within 4 m (13 ft) of a fire hydrant or a driveway of a fire station, and where "no parking" signs are placed.[1]

Parking on any sidewalk, path, or alley not intended for vehicular traffic or parking (such as bicycle lanes) is also prohibited by RA 4136 and DOTr Department Order No. 2020-014.[1][18]

## Standard rules

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List of some standard rules of the road for motor vehicles and animal-drawn vehicles, all based on RA 4136:[1]

* Keep to the right of the road except to pass others, where passing is allowed
* Vehicles must not exceed their registered carrying capacity
* Right of way at marked and unmarked intersections under various conditions
* Prohibited places for parking a vehicle
* Yield to police, fire department, and ambulance vehicles with a siren
* Yield right of way to pedestrian crossings
* Observe proper vehicle lighting and traffic light signalling
* Observe caution while driving and avoid impeding traffic
* Stopping if there has been a traffic collision

### Speed limits

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Main article: Speed limits in the Philippines

Speed limits for motor vehicles across the country are defined by RA 4136 based on the type of roads and their conditions. A higher maximum speed limit is generally applied to light motor vehicles while lower maximum speed limits are applied to heavier motor vehicles.[1]

There are no minimum speed limits on public roads except on expressways.[13] However, RA 4136 states that a driver of a motor vehicle must drive at a "careful and prudent speed, not greater nor less than is reasonable and proper" with regards to road conditions.[1]

Pursuant to DILG-DPWH-DOTr Joint Memorandum Circular 2018-001, local government units may designate lower maximum speed limits on local roads in the interest of road safety.[17][22]

### Lane splitting and filtering

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Main articles: Lane splitting and Lane sharing

Lane splitting and lane filtering is not explicitly illegal on Philippine roads for any type of vehicle. However, lane sharing (which is incorrectly defined as "lane splitting") is considered illegal for motorcycles under LTO Administrative Order 2008-015, which states that a motorcycle or scooter must observe one lane per vehicle only.[15] This policy however, is not actively enforced on the road.[37]

Section 3 of DPWC AO No. 1 s. 1968 prohibits any vehicle from lane splitting, lane sharing, or lane filtering on all expressways in the Philippines. This also applies to motorcycles, as of DPWH Department Order No. 123 s. 2001.[13][38]

### Overtaking lanes and slow lanes

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Main article: Overtaking

Expressways in the Philippines have a passing lane designated for overtaking and lanes designated for slow-moving vehicles.[13] This however does not apply to public roads by default.

Section 3 of DPWC AO No. 1 s. 1968 states that slow-moving vehicles on expressways must use the right lane and use the left lane only when passing.[13]

### Liability in incidents

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RA 4136 states that any accident resulting in death or injuries of another person due to negligence or reckless or unreasonable fast driving will be subject to provisions of the Revised Penal Code.[1]

The traffic code also states that in the event of an accident, the driver must stop and show their drivers' license and the details of registration of the vehicle to the other parties involved. No driver of a motor vehicle involved in an accident should leave the scene without aiding any victims except if there is imminent danger of harm, if the incident is reported to law enforcement, or if medical services are called.[1]

The Civil Code of the Philippines also dictates in the following articles that the liability of operating motor vehicles falls primarily on the owner or driver:[39]

* Article 2184 states that in motor vehicle mishaps, the owner is solidarily liable with his driver, if the former, who was in the vehicle, could have, by the use of the due diligence, prevented the misfortune. It is disputably presumed that a driver was negligent, if he had been found guilty of reckless driving or violating traffic regulations at least twice within the next preceding two months. If the owner was not in the motor vehicle, the provisions of article 2180 are applicable.
* Article 2185 states that unless there is proof to the contrary, it is presumed that a person driving a motor vehicle has been negligent if at the time of the mishap, he was violating any traffic regulation.
* Article 2186 states that every owner of a motor vehicle shall file with the proper government office a bond executed by a government-controlled corporation or office, to answer for damages to third persons. The amount of the bond and other terms shall be fixed by the competent public official.

In 2004, the Supreme Court of the Philippines ruled in Añonuevo v. Court of Appeals that Article 2185 was not intended at the time of its creation in 1950 to also cover non-motorized vehicles on the road, affirming previous rulings that have affirmed the higher level of responsibility expected from motor vehicle drivers. The ruling also clarifies the principle of negligence per se, which states that to indict individuals for negligence in an incident, the violation of a statutory duty must directly cause the incident.[40]

### Pedestrian crossings

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See also: Jaywalking § Philippines

RA 4136 states that within commercial or residential areas, drivers of vehicles must yield the right of way to a pedestrians crossing public roads on pedestrian crossings, except when traffic movement is regulated by traffic enforcers. On the other hand, pedestrians must yield their right of way to motor vehicles when crossing a public road at any point other than a pedestrian crossing.[1]

## Traffic restrictions

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Outside of the traffic code, there are traffic restrictions which designate the time and day that certain vehicles or road users are allowed to operate on, as well as specific roads where these restrictions are enforced or exempted on.

### Light electric vehicles

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In Metro Manila, LEVs such as electric bicycles (e-bicycles), motorized scooters, and electric rickshaws (e-tricycles) are required to use bicycle lanes when traversing major roads as designated by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority in MMDA Regulation 24-002 and its implementing guidelines in MMDA Memorandum Circular No. 4 s. 2024.[41]

RA 11697 provides that light electric vehicles may also use bicycle lanes.[12] All light electric vehicles with a maximum design speed below 60 km/h (37 mph) are prohibited on roads designated as expressways.[13]

### Motorcycles

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Motorcycles and mopeds are allowed on most roads with the exception of roads designated as expressways.

Only two-wheeled motorcycles with an engine displacement of 400 cc (24 cu in) and three-wheeled motorcycles with an engine displacement of 600 cc (37 cu in) are allowed to be used on expressways.[13][42]

Some highways, particularly in Metro Manila, have motorcycle lanes where motorcycles are designated to use. However, these lanes are usually not exclusive to motorcycles and allow other road users to use them and require motorcycles to remain in the lane. One exception to this is the motorcycle lane along Commonwealth Avenue where vehicles other than motorcycles may be penalized for unnecessary usage of the motorcycle lane.[43]

### Non-motorized transport

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See also: Cycling in the Philippines

Non-motorized vehicles include bicycles, kick scooters, and pedicabs, which are allowed on all public roads unless restricted otherwise.[citation needed]

All non-motorized transport are prohibited on roads designated as expressways.[13]

Bicycle lanes are lanes along roads or separate paths designated for the exclusive or shared use of bicycles, non-motorized transport, and light electric vehicles.[18][12] The generally applied rule is that only personal kick scooters, mobility scooters, bicycles, and pedal-assist bicycles are allowed to use bicycle lanes.[18][20]

In Metro Manila, alongside LEVs, pedicabs and kuligligs are prohibited from traversing major roads and may only cross said roads as designated by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority in MMDA Regulation 24-002 and its implementing guidelines in MMDA Memorandum Circular No. 4 s. 2024.[41]

Some cities and municipalities have local traffic codes that require the registration of bicycles and mandate that bicycles are to be ridden only on bicycle lanes when present along a road,[44] such as in San Juan[45] and Mandaluyong.[46] However, the bicycle-specific sections of the majority of these ordinances are not being actively enforced or may have been forgotten.[citation needed]

### Public utility vehicles

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Public transport vehicles, such as jeepneys, buses, and the UV Express are restricted to use designated lanes on certain roads. A notable example of this is the EDSA Busway, located on the inner lanes of EDSA in Metro Manila, which is restricted for the exclusive use of EDSA Carousel route buses and authorized government vehicles.

Similar to trucks, buses are to use the outermost lanes on the expressway. On the other hand, both public and private jeepneys are classified the same as cars and are allowed on all lanes.[citation needed]

Tricycles, pedicabs, and motorized tricycles used for public transport are prohibited from using national highways based on the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Memorandum Circular No. 2020-036. This restriction does not apply to those being used for private use.[47]

### Trucks

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Main article: Traffic in Metro Manila § Truck Ban Ordinance

Trucks are prohibited from passing through certain roads due to their large size and concern for safety around trucks. In Metro Manila, a truck ban ordinance prohibits trucks from most roads during the day and designates certain roads that are exempted from the truck ban.[48]

Some highways such as Circumferential Road 5 have designated lanes that trucks must stay in at all times while traversing the road, usually designated on the third lane from the sidewalk.[49] In addition to this, expressways have also designated the outermost lanes as lanes where trucks are only allowed to use.[citation needed]

## See also

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* Driving license in the Philippines
* Road signs in the Philippines
* Speed limits in the Philippines
* Philippine expressway network#Laws and restrictions
* Turn on red#Philippines
* Vehicle registration plates of the Philippines
* No Contact Apprehension Policy

## External links

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* Land Transportation Office - Filipino Driver's Manual (FDM) Volume 1, 2nd Edition
* Land Transportation Office - Filipino Driver's Manual (FDM) Volume 2, 2nd Edition
* Republic Act No. 4136 - Land Transportation and Traffic Code
* Joint Metro Manila Traffic Circular No. 01 - Metro Manila Traffic Code of 2023
* Joint Administrative Order No. 2014-01 - Revised Schedule of Fines and Penalties for Violations of Laws, Rules and Regulations Governing Land Transportation

## Notes

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1. ^ Except for L3 units with a higher minimum power rating, to be determined by the Department of Transportation.
2. ^ Except for two-wheeled motorcycles with an engine displacement above 400 cc (24 cu in) and three-wheeled motorcycles with engine displacement above 600 cc (37 cu in).

## References

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2. ^ Act No. 3992 (March 10, 1922), Motor Vehicle Law, retrieved January 25, 2024
3. ^ a b Act No. 3992 (December 3, 1932), Revised Motor Vehicle Law, retrieved January 25, 2024
4. ^ Republic Act No. 2000 (June 22, 1957), Limited Access Highway Act, archived from the original on November 3, 2023, retrieved November 3, 2023
5. ^ Presidential Decree No. 96 (January 13, 1973), Presidential Decree No. 96, archived from the original on November 7, 2023, retrieved November 1, 2023
6. ^ Republic Act No. 8750 (August 5, 1999), Seat Belts Use Act of 1999, archived from the original on September 1, 2023, retrieved September 1, 2023
7. ^ Republic Act No. 10054 (July 27, 2009), Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009, archived from the original on May 18, 2023, retrieved September 1, 2023
8. ^ Republic Act No. 10586 (July 23, 2012), Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013, archived from the original on September 1, 2023, retrieved September 1, 2023
9. ^ Republic Act No. 10666 (July 28, 2014), Children's Safety on Motorcycles Act of 2015, archived from the original on September 13, 2023, retrieved September 1, 2023
10. ^ Republic Act No. 10913 (June 20, 1964), Anti-Distracted Driving Act (PDF), archived (PDF) from the original on January 1, 2023, retrieved September 1, 2023
11. ^ Republic Act No. 10916 (July 27, 2015), Road Speed Limiter Act of 2016, archived from the original on November 1, 2023, retrieved November 1, 2023
12. ^ a b c Republic Act No. 11697 (April 15, 2022), An Act Providing For The Development Of The Electric Vehicle Industry
13. ^ a b c d e f g h Department of Public Works and Communications Administrative Order No. 1 (February 19, 1968), Revised Rules and Regulations Governing Limited Access Highways (PDF), archived from the original (PDF) on August 9, 2017
14. ^ Department of Public Works and Highways Department Order No. 123 (July 18, 2001), Revised Rules and Regulations Governing Limited Access Highways (PDF), archived from the original (PDF) on August 9, 2017, retrieved November 23, 2023
15. ^ a b Land Transportation Office Administrative Order No. AHS-2008-015 (May 15, 2008), Rules and Regulations for the Use and Operation of Motorcycles on Highways, archived from the original on November 3, 2023, retrieved November 3, 2023
16. ^ Department of Transportation and Communications Joint Administrative Order No. 2014-01 (June 2, 2014), Revised Schedule of Fines and Penalties for Violation of Laws, Rules and Regulations Governing Land Transportation (PDF), archived (PDF) from the original on June 30, 2022, retrieved August 30, 2023
17. ^ a b DOTr-DPWH-DILG Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2018-01 (January 17, 2018), Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2018-001: Guidelines and Standards for the Classifications of Roads, Setting of Speed Limits Under Republic Act No. 4136, and Collection of Road Crash Data (PDF), archived from the original (PDF) on July 14, 2021, retrieved July 14, 2021
18. ^ a b c d e Department of Transportation Department Order No. 14 (August 25, 2020), Guidelines and Protocols for Active Transportation and Light Mobility Vehicles (PDF), archived (PDF) from the original on November 1, 2023, retrieved November 1, 2023
19. ^ a b c Land Transportation Office Memorandum (October 2, 2024), Suspension of LTO Administrative Order No. 2021-039 and LTO Administrative Order No. VDM-2024-044 or The Guidelines in the Classification, Registration and Operation of All Types of Electric Vehicles (PDF), retrieved October 15, 2024
20. ^ a b c d e Land Transportation Office Administrative Order No. 39 (May 11, 2021), Consolidated Guidelines in the Classification, Registration and Operation of All Types of Electric Motor Vehicles (PDF), retrieved October 15, 2024
21. ^ a b c Land Transportation Office Administrative Order No. VDM-2024-044 (February 21, 2024), Amended Consolidated Guidelines in the Classification, Registration and Operation of All Types of Electric Vehicles (PDF), retrieved March 12, 2024
22. ^ a b c d e "Metro Manila Traffic Code of 2023" (PDF). February 1, 2023. Archived (PDF) from the original on November 12, 2023. Retrieved September 1, 2023.
23. ^ Republic Act No. 5715 (June 21, 1969), EAn Act Amending Section Thirty-four of Republic Act Numbered Four Thousand One Hundred Thirty-six, archived from the original on November 3, 2023, retrieved November 3, 2023
24. ^ Presidential Decree No. 382 (January 28, 1974), Extending the Period for Registration of All for Hire Motor Vehicles, Amending for the Purpose Sub-paragraph 1, Paragraph (B), of Section 5, Republic Act Numbered 4136, as Amended
25. ^ Presidential Decree No. 843 (December 12, 1975), Amending Republic Act No. 4136, as Amended, Otherwise Known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code by Increasing the Annual Registration Fee on Private Automobiles and Imposing an Ad Valorem Tax Thereon, and for Other Purposes, archived from the original on January 30, 2018, retrieved November 3, 2023
26. ^ Presidential Decree No. 896 (February 26, 1976), Further Amending Republic Act No. 4136, Otherwise Known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code
27. ^ Presidential Decree No. 1057 (November 30, 1976), Amending Republic Act No. 4136, Otherwise Known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code
28. ^ Batas Pambansa Blg. 74 (June 11, 1980), An Act Amending Certain Sections Of Republic Act Numbered Forty-one Hundred and Thirty-six, Otherwise Known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, archived from the original on November 1, 2023, retrieved November 1, 2023
29. ^ Batas Pambansa Blg. 398 (May 18, 1983), An Act Amending Certain Sections of Republic Act Numbered Forty-one Hundred and Thirty-six, Otherwise Known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, archived from the original on November 3, 2023, retrieved November 3, 2023
30. ^ Presidential Decree No. 1934 (June 11, 1984), Amending Certain Sections of Republic Act Numbered Forty One Hundred And Thirty Six Otherwise Known As The Land Transportation and Traffic Code, archived from the original on August 14, 2018, retrieved November 3, 2023
31. ^ Presidential Decree No. 1950 (September 5, 1984), Amending Certain Sections of Presidential Decree No. 1934, Amending Republic Act No. 4136
32. ^ Executive Order No. 43 (August 22, 1986), Restructuring The Private Motor Vehicle Tax (PDF)
33. ^ Republic Act No. 8794 (June 27, 2000), An Act Imposing A Motor Vehicle User's Charge On Owners Of All Types Of Motor Vehicles And For Other Purposes, archived from the original on November 1, 2023, retrieved November 1, 2023
34. ^ Republic Act No. 10930 (July 25, 2017), An Act Rationalizing and Strengthening the Policy Regarding Driver's License by Extending the Validity Period of Drivers' Licenses, and Penalizing Acts in Violation of Its Issuance and Application Amending for Those Purposes Section 23 of Republic Act No. 4136, as Amended by Batas Pambansa Blg. 398 and Executive Order No. 1011, Otherwise Known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, archived from the original on June 1, 2023, retrieved November 1, 2023
35. ^ DOTC Department Order No. 2010-32 (September 8, 2010), Harmonization of Motor Vehicle (MV) Classifications of LTO and LTFRB (PDF)
36. ^ Republic Act No. 917 (June 20, 1953), Philippine Highway Act of 1953, archived from the original on September 25, 2021, retrieved January 12, 2024
37. ^ Chao, Gilbert (November 5, 2022). "Caught in the middle: Why do moto riders split lanes and how is it illegal?". AutoFun. Archived from the original on November 3, 2023. Retrieved November 3, 2023.
38. ^ "Legal basis of "slow-moving vehicle lanes" and "overtaking lanes" on expressways". eFOI Philippines. November 24, 2023. Archived from the original on December 3, 2023. Retrieved December 8, 2023.
39. ^ Republic Act No. 386 (June 18, 1949), Civil Code of the Philippines This article incorporates text from this source, which is in the public domain.
40. ^ G.R. No. 130003 (October 20, 2004), Añonuevo v. Court of Appeals
41. ^ a b MMDA Memorandum Circular No. 04 (March 25, 2024), Implementing Guidelines for MMDA Regulation No. 24-002 (PDF)
42. ^ DOTr Department Order No. 2021-006 (February 24, 2021), Supplemental Rules and Regulations Governing the Use of Limited Access Facilities (Expressways) by Motorcycles
43. ^ Tulio, Jason (March 29, 2023). "Report: 1,391 Motorists apprehended on Commonwealth on first day of MC lane policy". Top Gear Philippines. Archived from the original on November 3, 2023. Retrieved November 3, 2023.
44. ^ "Draft Traffic Code". SSTRIMM Final Report (PDF). Japan International Cooperation Agency. November 2001. p. A-7.
45. ^ San Juan Municipal Ordinance No. 037-04 (November 30, 2004), An Ordinance Adopting the New Traffic Code of the Municipality of San Juan, Metro Manila
46. ^ Mandaluyong City Ordinance No. 588-14 (December 5, 2014), Omnibus Traffic Management Code of the City of Mandaluyong
47. ^ Memorandum Circular No. 2020-036 (February 17, 2020), Prohibiting Tricycles, Pedicabs, and Motorized Pedicabs from Operating on National Highways, archived from the original on July 4, 2022, retrieved November 3, 2023
48. ^ "Truck Ban Ordinance Updated FAQ (June 8, 2022)". Metropolitan Manila Development Authority. June 21, 2022. Archived from the original on November 3, 2023. Retrieved November 3, 2023.
49. ^ Memorandum Circular No. 16-01 (2016), Implementing Guidelines of the "Resolution Implementing the One Truck Lane Policy along Circumferential 5, Katipunan Avenue, Congressional Road, Mindanao Avenue, and Road 10 Starting February 1, 2016" under Special Traffic Committee No. 02 series of 2016 (PDF), archived (PDF) from the original on August 7, 2022, retrieved November 3, 2023

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