The Land Transportation Office (LTO) arrested eight people and seized dozens of fake license plates in separate operations targeting suspected counterfeit plate-making operations in Malabon City and Davao City.

The operations were carried out on September 2 and 3 as part of the agency’s intensified enforcement of Memorandum Circular No. MVL-2026-5314, which targets the production and sale of unauthorized vehicle plates and LTO documents.

LTO Chief Markus Lacanilao said the operations are focused on identifying the people behind the production and sale of fake plates, rather than simply going after motorists caught using them.

“We are not only apprehending those who use fake plates. We are looking for where they are made and who profits from this illegal business.”

In Barangay Tugatog, Malabon City, the LTO and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) arrested two individuals during an entrapment operation on September 2.

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The operation was carried out based on information received by the LTO regarding the alleged sale of fake plates and LTO documents. The agency’s Intelligence and Investigation Division verified the report before its Law Enforcement Service, together with the CIDG, carried out the operation.

Authorities recovered PHP 500 in marked money, along with fake plates and four machines allegedly used to produce counterfeit license plates.

A follow-up inspection found that a rented property was allegedly being used as a workshop and storage area for fake plates and LTO documents before they were distributed to buyers. Fake driver’s licenses were also reportedly found at the site.

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The following day, LTO personnel and the CIDG conducted a separate operation at five establishments along Quezon Boulevard in Davao City. Six people were arrested, and 64 fake plates were seized.

The establishments identified by the LTO were Pogz Art and Sign, Eschat Art and Sign Tailoring, Sticker Art and Sign, WMT Printing Services, and Magnorms Advertising Services.

Aside from the fake plates, authorities confiscated computers, machine tools, and other equipment allegedly used to produce counterfeit plates. These included hammers, cutters, steel plates, sticker cutters, plain sheets, and flat screws.

The arrested individuals and seized evidence were turned over to the appropriate police units for processing. The LTO said cases are being prepared based on the investigation's results, including possible violations of the Revised Penal Code and the Motorcycle Crime Prevention Act.