LTO clarifies: No blanket ban on e-bikes, e-trikes
[Updated May 1, 2026, 2:05 p.m.]
MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Office (LTO) on Friday clarified that there is no blanket ban on electric bicycles (e-bikes) and electric tricycles (e-trikes), stressing that these vehicles can still operate on city and municipal roads.
This came after the Move As One Coalition, in a statement on Thursday, asked LTO chief Markus Lacanilao if there is truly a ban on e-bikes and e-trikes, citing the LTO’s allegedly “confusing” response to their recent letter that called for lifting the restrictions amid the continuous oil price hikes.
In a statement, Lacanilao said the restriction applies only to national highways and major thoroughfares such as Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA), C-5, Roxas Boulevard, and other major thoroughfares.
READ: LTO flags down over 200 e-trikes, e-bikes after ban on major highways
“To be clear, there is no blanket ban on e-bikes and e-trikes. These vehicles remain free to operate on city and municipal roads,” Lacanilao said.
He explained that the restriction on national highways is based on road safety concerns, particularly the speed differences between e-trikes and regular motor vehicles, which may pose risks to riders and motorists.
“This action is preventive, not punitive. It is aimed at protecting riders, motorists, and the general public from foreseeable harm,” he pointed out as he sought the public’s cooperation and understanding.
‘Calls to lift e-bike, e-trike ban restrictions on nat’l highways’
The Move As One Coalition is calling on the LTO to immediately lift the ban restrictions of e-bike and e-trike users on the national highways amid the oil crisis that the country is facing due to the continued tensions in the Middle East.
The coalition argued that the e-bike and e-trike users were not consulted prior to the implementation of the policy on the major thoroughfares in January.
“Many workers, mothers, fathers, riders, senior citizens, people with disabilities, and commuters are shocked that they can no longer use their fuel-efficient and low-emission LEVs (Light Electric Vehicles) in their daily commute,” the group said.
The INQUIRER reached out to Lacanilao regarding the Move As One Coalition’s consultation concern but has not yet responded as of posting time.
On January 2, the LTO began prohibiting e-bikes and e-trikes on major roads in Metro Manila, citing “general considerations of road safety.”
The LTO also released guidelines and informational campaigns about the prohibition.
READ: E-trikes banned on major Metro Manila roads starting Jan. 2
The restriction of e-bikes and e-trikes in major thoroughfares is currently being carried out through joint enforcement efforts of the LTO and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA).
As for areas outside Metro Manila, Lacanilao said information and education campaigns for e-bike and e-trike users will be prioritized while the Department of Transportation finalizes joint guidelines on the restrictions. /dp /mr
