The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has launched “Oplan Biyaheng Ayos (Operation Safe and Orderly Travel)–Undas 2026” to manage the travel surge for All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. The agency is conducting roadworthiness inspections, random drug tests for drivers, and crackdowns on unauthorized “colorum” vehicles across major terminals and transport corridors to prevent road crashes.
LTO deploys personnel to major expressways and terminals
LTO Chief Markus Lacanilao confirmed that personnel are deployed at strategic areas, including expressway entry and exit points and major tollways. These locations include the North Luzon Expressway, South Luzon Expressway, Skyway, STAR Tollway, Manila–Cavite Expressway, Cavite–Laguna Expressway, Subic–Clark–Tarlac Expressway, Tarlac–Pangasinan–La Union Expressway, and the Philippine Economic Zone Authority–Tollway.
The operation is split into two phases. The first ended Oct. 27, while the second phase runs from Oct. 28 to Nov. 4. Lacanilao noted that 27 bus terminals passed inspection in coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard.
Did You Know? The LTO uses the “DR. “DR. BLOWBAGSY” acronym as a pre-driving checklist, which stands for Driver’s License, Registration, Brakes, Lights, Oil, Water, Battery, Air and Accessories, Gas, Steering, and Yourself.”
Regional enforcement catches unauthorized vehicles and impaired drivers
In Western Visayas, LTO-6 deployed 94 personnel to inspect hundreds of vehicles at terminals in Iloilo, including the Tagbak, Ungka, and Pavia People’s terminals. LTO-6 apprehended 24 suspected colorum vehicles by Oct. 30, including a multipurpose van in Cabatuan, Iloilo, that was transporting paying passengers.
Safety screenings have also targeted driver impairment. Seven transport drivers initially tested positive during random drug screenings at the Bacolod North Bus Terminal on Oct. 30. In Antique, LTO-Antique head Eric Otayde stated that surprise drug tests are being conducted among tricycle drivers.
Motorists must carry valid licenses and registration
Lawyer Danika Blin Sanchez, supervising transportation regulation officer and chief of the LTO Ilocos Operations Division, emphasized that motorists must carry a valid license and updated registration. She cautioned against allowing unlicensed individuals or minors to drive and warned against the use of improvised license plates.
Sanchez noted that drivers can be held liable for seat belt violations committed by their front-seat passengers. She also reminded motorists to ensure headlights and other lighting devices comply with prescribed color standards. In Antique, 42 deputized officers from the Antique Police Provincial Office are assisting the LTO in verifying licenses and helmet use.
Potential impacts on Undas travel
Ongoing road construction projects and increased travel activity may lead to congestion. Sanchez advised motorists to plan trips in advance and allow extra travel time. LTO-6 law enforcement teams may increase monitoring on roads leading to cemeteries and memorial parks as traffic peaks on Nov. 1 and Nov. 2.
Drivers who fail to comply with registration or safety standards could face penalties or vehicle impoundment. LTO-6 Director Atty. Gaudioso P. Geduspan II warned that physical discomfort or health problems could compromise road safety, urging drivers to evaluate their fitness before traveling.
What is the DR. BLOWBAGSY checklist?
What is the “DR. BLOWBAGSY” checklist?
It is a pre-driving safety guide that reminds motorists to check their Driver’s License, Registration, Brakes, Lights, Oil, Water, Battery, Air and Accessories, Gas, Steering, and their own physical/mental condition (Yourself).
What happens to “colorum” vehicles found during the operation?
Vehicles registered for private use that transport passengers for pay are prohibited under Republic Act No. 4136. According to LTO-6, these unauthorized operators may face penalties or possible impoundment.
Where are LTO personnel being deployed for Undas 2026?
Personnel are stationed at major transport corridors, tollways, and expressway entry/exit points, as well as major bus terminals, seaports, and airports.
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