Holiday travel across Western Visayas proved safer and more disciplined this season as stricter inspections by the Land Transportation Office Region (LTO-6) resulted in fewer traffic violations despite a higher number of vehicles checked.
From December 20, 2025 to January 4, 2026, LTO-6 inspected 13,659 vehicles under Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Pasko 2025, a campaign aimed at protecting motorists and commuters during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
Close to 500 violations were recorded, while 194 Temporary Operator’s Permits were issued to vehicles that failed to meet safety standards.
LTO-6 Regional Director Atty. Gaudioso P. Geduspan II said the operation revealed a persistent problem with old and unsafe public utility jeepneys, many of which were ordered off the roads due to bald tires, mechanical defects, and other safety issues that made them a danger to passengers and other motorists.
Private vehicles were not spared from scrutiny. Common violations involved the non-use of seatbelts and helmets, as well as vehicles carrying more passengers than allowed — risky practices that authorities say significantly increase the chances of serious injuries during accidents.
What stood out this year, however, was the trend: inspections went up, but violations went down. This, according to Geduspan, indicates growing awareness among drivers and operators about traffic rules and road safety, especially during peak travel seasons.
The improved performance earned LTO-6 national recognition as the top-performing regional office in the implementation of Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Pasko 2025.
Geduspan credited the achievement to the consistent presence of deputized personnel and the Regional Law Enforcement Service, who enforced the law firmly while maintaining fairness on the ground.
With the results of the holiday operation, LTO-6 said it will continue sustaining intensified inspections and balanced enforcement to keep Western Visayas roads safer well beyond the festive season.IMT
