LTO intensifies its crackdown on DUI; 40 cases filed Q1 2026

40 DUI cases filed vs drunk drivers in 1st quarter of 2026 reports LTO

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has intensified its crackdown on DUI, filing 40 administrative cases in the first quarter of 2026 alone. The agency said all incidents took place in Metro Manila, where the cases were also processed.

“These enforcement actions reflect our unwavering commitment to road safety. We will not tolerate any behavior that puts the lives of Filipinos at risk. Through close collaboration between our enforcement units, we are ensuring that compliance with road safety laws is strictly upheld across the country,” said LTO Chief, Markus Lacanilao.

Twelve motorists were caught driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI), 9 refused to undergo mandatory testing, and 19 tested positive for methamphetamine in random drug checks at bus and jeepney terminals. All have been issued Show Cause Orders (SCOs), with their driver’s licenses confiscated and vehicles flagged while investigations are ongoing. Hearings are to commence until the end of March.

Zero tolerance

Republic Act 10586, or the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013, is very clear when it comes to penalties related to DUI.

Under the law, motorists caught driving under the influence face fines ranging from PHP 20,000 to PHP 80,000 and up to three months’ imprisonment, even if no injury or damage occurs. First offenders face a 1-year driver’s license suspension, while second offenders face permanent disqualification from driving. Refusing to undergo breath, field sobriety, or drug testing also leads to similar sanctions.

For professional driver’s license holders (not just PUV drivers), RA 10586 imposes a strict one-strike rule: a single conviction means immediate confiscation and permanent revocation of the license, effectively banning the driver from ever getting one again.

Penalties also increase if the violation causes injury or death, with courts applying the Revised Penal Code. In cases resulting in death, offenders may face reclusion temporal to reclusion perpetua, fines of PHP 300,000 to PHP 500,000, and permanent revocation of their driver’s licenses.