DOTr revokes protocol plates amid misuse allegations

Acting Transport Secretary Giovanni Lopez ordered the immediate revocation of all protocol license plates issued to officials within the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and its attached agencies to stop their indiscriminate and unwarranted use.

All concerned officials must surrender their protocol license plates, as the revocation covers all previously issued authorization to use them.

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) is tasked with coordinating the recall process, reviewing Joint Administrative Order 2024-001, and submitting an updated inventory of special plate holders.

The use of sirens, blinkers, and similar devices on vehicles is also prohibited.

The decision follows a road altercation involving a DOTr Undersecretary's vehicle, which bore a protocol plate assigned to other high-ranking officials, and another motorist.

The concerned Undersecretary has been asked to explain the incident.