The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has ramped up its enforcement efforts, issuing a significant number of Show Cause Orders (SCOs) against motorists found violating traffic laws.

When asked for an updated tally, the agency readily provided the figures: 128 SCOs have been issued so far, while 76 driver’s licenses have already been revoked — all within the first two months of the year.

LTO Chief Markus Lacanilao

The numbers

According to the LTO, from January 1 to February 21, 2026, the agency issued 169 directives related to traffic violations: 128 Show Cause Orders (SCOs), one subpoena, and 40 formal invitations.

Within the same period, it suspended 125 driver’s licenses and revoked 76 others. Earlier, from October to December 31, 2025, the agency also suspended 80 licenses and revoked 164.

In total, 445 drivers have been penalized since LTO Chief Markus Lacanilao assumed office, with suspended motorists barred from driving for at least 90 days, while those whose licenses were revoked face longer-term disqualification from operating motor vehicles.

Top 3 violations

So, what violations are costing motorists their licenses?

According to LTO Executive Director Atty. Martin Ontog, Reckless Driving remains the top offense leading to suspensions and revocations, with Disregarding Traffic Signs close behind.

But for more serious cases, especially road rage incidents, the LTO does not hesitate to declare violators as “Improper Person to Operate a Motor Vehicle,” a ruling that carries the harshest penalties, including perpetual license revocation.

What does this mean for ordinary motorists? Well, it means the LTO is doubling down on road safety, and it will not hesitate to take drivers off the streets if these drivers believe the rules can be bent or don’t apply to them.

As the agency often reminds the public, “driving is a privilege, not a right.” And privileges can be revoked when a motorist proves unfit to follow the law.