KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato (PIA) — The Land Transportation Office (LTO) continues to promote road safety through its driver’s education center.
Lloyd Labanon, team leader of the LTO driver’s education center in Soccsksargen, said they are offering free theoretical driving courses (TDC) for residents.
“The LTO’s goal is to instill road safety awareness early on through proper education,” Labanon told the city government of Koronadal’s “Tingog Sang Pagsanyog” online program.
According to Labanon, this initiative not only provides an opportunity for individuals to obtain a driver’s license but also ensures that they receive essential knowledge about road rules and responsible driving.
The 15-hour TDC covers topics such as introduction to driving, pre-driving orientation on motor vehicles and motorcycles, defensive driving, driver duties and responsibilities, land transportation-related special laws, handling emergencies and breakdowns, and road and traffic rules.
“From January to April this year, 827 student drivers have so far joined the free TDC. With this, we are poised to surpass our 2023 accomplishment of 2,628,” said Labanon.
Each participant will receive a TDC certificate upon completion, which is a prerequisite for applying for a student driver’s permit.
Labanon continued that “any LTO district office nationwide will accept the TDC certificate, which is valid for one year.”
Labanon noted that the initiative is a big reprieve, especially for indigents, as the TDC usually costs around P1,000 to P2,000 in private driving schools.
Based on LTO Memorandum Circular 2019-2176, the TDC is a mandatory course to strengthen education among aspiring drivers.
“In the past, you could have a student permit just by filling out the necessary forms, submitting requirements, and paying the corresponding fees. But now, under Republic Act 10930, stricter rules are implemented,” Labanon explained.
The LTO advised residents interested in availing of the free TDC to visit the regional LTO office in Koronadal City every second and last Wednesday of the month.
It also advised local government units and barangays interested in bringing it to their localities to either send a letter of request or visit the nearest LTO office for coordination. (ORVR – PIA Region 12)
