Where Can You Contest an Alleged Traffic Violation in the Philippines?

Contesting a traffic violation is a means to ensure fair treatment and correct any unjustly issued tickets. Understanding where to file your complaint and the process involved can help you effectively address any discrepancies. This knowledge is important for all drivers to protect their rights and avoid unnecessary penalties, possibly reversing an unjustly issued ticket.

You may need to contest a traffic violation if you believe the ticket was issued unfairly or if the traffic enforcer violated proper procedures. Knowing where to contest such violations ensures you can take timely action within the designated period. The process involves gathering necessary documents and evidence, and submitting your complaint either in person or online to the appropriate office of the LTO, MMDA, or LGU. This guide explains the steps to take and the offices to contact when contesting a traffic citation.

Contesting an Alleged Traffic Violation

Contesting an alleged traffic violation means formally disputing a traffic ticket you believe was issued unfairly. This process entails submitting a protest to the relevant authorities, such as the Land Transportation Office (LTO) or the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), along with necessary documents and evidence. You do this to ensure fair treatment and potentially reverse an unjust ticket, avoiding unnecessary fines and penalties.

Knowing how to contest a traffic violation is crucial for protecting your rights as a driver. If you don’t contest within the specified period, you may have to settle the fines or face other penalties without the chance of rectifying an unfair situation. The law provides clear procedures for contesting traffic violations at both the LTO and MMDA, ensuring that motorists have a structured avenue for seeking redress.

Photo credit: Aggie Mañalac / Facebook

Where to Contest Traffic Violation

The process to contest a traffic violation begins within ten working days from the receipt or issuance of the citation ticket. You may file your protest or complaint in person at the Traffic Adjudication Board (TAB) of the MMDA, or the appropriate office of the LTO and LGU that issued the ticket. Additionally, complaints can be submitted online via email or through their designated websites or online forms. 

LTO

The LTO handles traffic violations through various offices. Drivers can contest violations at the Central Office Cashier, Regional Offices – Operations Division, LETAS-equipped District Offices, or Extension Offices with LETAS capabilities. It’s essential to gather all necessary documents, such as a contest letter and supporting evidence like photos or videos, before filing your complaint.

MMDA

For MMDA-issued traffic tickets or apprehension by the MMDA, complaints can be submitted to the Traffic Adjudication Board. This board will hear and decide on complaints and protests filed by motorists. If your issue pertains to the conduct of a traffic enforcer, you should contact the Technical Committee on Complaints (TCC). Both the TAB and TCC are located at the MMDA Building on Orense Street corner EDSA, Guadalupe Nuevo, Makati City and can be reached at 882-41-51 or Hotline 136 for further assistance.

Requirements for Contesting an Alleged Traffic Violation

To contest an alleged traffic violation in the Philippines, specific documents are required to support your claim. These documents ensure that your case is reviewed thoroughly and fairly by the appropriate authorities. Below is a list of the general and additional requirements you may need:

General Requirements

  • Pink copy of the Temporary Operator’s Permit (TOP) or an Affidavit of Loss, if the TOP is lost
  • Written Protest, Affidavit of Denial, Motion for Reconsideration, or Letter of Appeal

Additional Requirements (if Confiscated Driver’s License/License Plate)

Additional Requirements (if Motor Vehicle is Impounded)

  • Impounding Receipt of Motor Vehicle (IRMV) with stencils of motor and chassis numbers
  • Photocopy of Official Receipt (OR) / Certificate of Registration (CR)
  • Franchise verification (for franchise-related violations)
  • Certificate of Emission Compliance (for anti-smoke belching violations)
  • Motor Vehicle Inspection System (MVIS) Inspection Report with Official Receipt (for violations requiring inspection such as unauthorized/defective accessories, unauthorized modifications, etc.)

For MMDA citations

  • Unified Ordinance Violation Receipt (UOVR) or the traffic violation ticket issued by the MMDA.
  • Valid copy of the apprehended driver’s LTO driver’s license.
  • Vehicle Documents:
    • Official receipt (OR) 
    • Certificate of registration (CR) of the vehicle
    • Deed of sale (if you’re not yet the registered owner indicated in the OR/CR)
    • Authorization Letter (if sending authorized representatives)
  • Additional Required Information:
    • Personal Information: Name, Address, Contact Number, Date of Birth, etc.
    • Driver’s License Number
    • Vehicle Details: Car’s plate number, LTO MV File Number, and Motor Number (found on the LTO certificate of registration)
    • Brief Explanation of the Incident
    • Supporting Evidence: Letters, Certifications, Videos, etc.

Procedures

Contesting a traffic violation in the Philippines involves a structured process to ensure fair treatment. Whether handled in person or online, the procedures must be followed meticulously to resolve the dispute effectively. Here’s a step-by-step guide to contesting a traffic violation:

In Person – LETAS and Regional Offices

Step 1. Submit a written protest and present the TOP/IRMV within five days of apprehension.

Step 2. Wait for the agency to check and forward your documents to the Regional Office and assign a Hearing Officer.

Step 3. Submit all affidavits, pleadings, and relevant documents; await the Summons/Notice of Hearing if necessary.

Step 4. Submit a position paper and attend the scheduled hearing.

Step 5. Wait for the resolution or decision on the case.

Step 6. If the case is affirmed, proceed to the cashier for payment; if dismissed, proceed to the Releasing Unit for the return of confiscated items or impounded vehicle.

In Person – LTO District Offices

Step 1. Submit a written protest and present the TOP/IRMV within five days of apprehension.

Step 2. Wait while the LTO officer receives, checks, and forwards your documents to the Regional Office.

Step 3. Await assignment of a Hearing Officer, then submit all necessary documents.

Step 4. Wait for the Summons/Notice of Hearing and attend any scheduled hearings.

Step 5. Await the resolution or decision; if affirmed, proceed to the cashier for payment.

Step 6. If dismissed, proceed to the Releasing Unit for the return of confiscated items or impounded vehicles.

In Person – MMDA

Step 1. Visit the Traffic Adjudication Board at the 4th floor of the MMDA Building on Orense Street corner EDSA, Guadalupe Nuevo, Makati City and submit a written protest along with the pink copy of the Temporary Operator’s Permit (TOP) or an Affidavit of Loss if the TOP is missing.

Step 2. Provide additional documents if necessary, such as a photocopy of the Official Receipt (OR) or Certificate of Registration (CR), franchise verification, Certificate of Emission Compliance, and Motor Vehicle Inspection System (MVIS) Inspection Report.

Step 3. The MMDA will review your submission and assign a Hearing Officer. Attend any scheduled hearings and submit any additional affidavits, pleadings, or relevant documents as required.

Step 4. Participate in the scheduled hearing and present your case. Be prepared to provide any necessary evidence to support your protest.

Step 5. Wait for the resolution or decision on your case. If your contest is affirmed, proceed to the cashier for payment of fines. If dismissed, go to the Releasing Unit for the return of any confiscated items or impounded vehicle.

Step 6. Ensure you receive the official receipt for any payments made and collect your confiscated items or vehicle as directed.

Online – LTO

Step 1. Access the LTO’s online portal or the new LTO app, ‘Isumbong mo kay Chief.’ Verify the details of your violation, ensuring all information matches the citation issued to you.

Step 2. Use the app to file your complaint. Provide detailed information, including your driver’s license number, vehicle details, citation number, and the nature of your protest. Attach any supporting evidence, such as photos or videos, to strengthen your case.

Step 3. After submitting your complaint, wait for the LTO to review your case. You will receive further instructions or a decision via email or through the app. Follow any additional steps provided by the LTO to complete the process.

Online – MMDA

Step 1. Access the Online Form: Visit the MMDA’s dedicated Google form link (https://bit.ly/3J62YhH) to access the online filing platform.

Step 2. Fill Out Details: Provide required information such as name, address, contact number, date of birth, driver’s license number, vehicle’s plate number, LTO MV file number, and motor number as indicated in the certificate of registration.

Step 3. Upload Documents: Upload digital copies of necessary documents including UOVR, driver’s license, and vehicle documents.

Step 4. Upon submission, MMDA’s Traffic Adjudication Division (TAD) will process your contest.Within three working days, expect contact from TAD for the pre-processing phase to assess the basis and merit of your complaint and validity of attached documents.

Step 5. If your contest proceeds after pre-processing, a face-to-face hearing will be scheduled. This hearing validates submitted documents and allows both parties to present their cases. Receive the resolution online or physically, based on preference.

Step 4. If resolution is unfavorable, file a motion for reconsideration (MR) to the head of TAD at MMDA’s Makati headquarters. Alternatively, appeal directly to the MMDA Chairman following proper appeal procedures for best chances of a favorable outcome.

Note: The online MMDA platform only covers contests for physical traffic violations issued by MMDA officers. Exclusions include violations under MMDA’s no-contact apprehension program pending final Supreme Court decision on NCAP validity.

Limitations and Restrictions to online MMDA contest

  • Only up to five UOVR tickets can be contested per complaint form.
  • Appeals accepted only from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays; submissions after processed next working day.
  • Strict adherence to document upload guidelines; improper uploads may disqualify use of the platform.

Note: If you encounter any traffic enforcer violating procedures, note the name on their nameplate, the time, and the place of their assignment. This information will be necessary when filing your complaint. Ensure that all documents and evidence are complete to facilitate proper investigation and resolution of your case.

Fees

Naturally, these services are not free. When contesting apprehensions, here are the things you will need to pay for:

At the LTO Offices

Video: How to Contest LTO Traffic Violations

Here’s a quick guide on how to contest an alleged traffic violation at the LTO. Understanding the procedures can help you effectively address any unjust citations. Follow these steps in this video from AlCabs to ensure your complaint is properly reviewed by the LTO.

Summary

Contesting a traffic violation in the Philippines involves submitting a complaint to the LTO or MMDA within ten working days of receiving the ticket. The process requires proper documentation and can be done in person or online. Knowing where to file your complaint and what information to include is essential for a successful contest. This process ensures fair treatment and provides an opportunity to reverse unjustly issued traffic tickets.