A regulatory change related to vehicle registration is set to take effect in the Philippines, under which buyers of brand-new two-wheelers and select motor vehicles will be subject to an extended registration validity period. Beginning February 15th, 2026, two-wheelers purchased new will be issued a five-year registration validity by the Land Transportation Office (LTO), subject to final implementation.

The policy follows the approval by President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. of a proposal submitted by Transportation Secretary Giovanni "Banoy" Lopez. The measure applies to the first five years from the date of purchase. Motor vehicles are also covered under the policy.

"Since these dealers have levelled up, policies will also be improved. More importantly, because of the extension of validity, long queues at the LTO for renewals can be avoided, along with issues involving fixers and corruption, with public convenience remaining the priority," Lopez said.

The Transportation Secretary clarified that only brand-new vehicles and two-wheelers will be covered by the five-year registration validity. After this period, registration will revert to annual renewal. A mandatory roadworthiness inspection will be conducted in the fourth year to ensure that vehicles operating on public roads meet safety and condition requirements, in line with the President's directive.

"On the sixth year, it needs to be renewed and every year thereafter. As vehicles age, they become less reliable due to depreciation or wear and tear. It is therefore important for the LTO to conduct a comprehensive roadworthiness check," Lopez further added.

The Department of Transportation and the LTO are expected to issue a department order and a memorandum circular outlining the five-year vehicle registration policy, which is targeted for implementation on February 15th, 2026.