09/03/2026
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Following a productive discussion between Senator JV Ejercito and Land Transportation Office (LTO) Chief, Assistant Secretary Markus V. Lacanilao, the LTO has issued a crucial clarification regarding its enforcement policy on modified mufflers. The agency emphasizes that its focus is not on penalizing legitimate buyers of aftermarket mufflers but rather on apprehending those using illegally assembled or non-compliant devices.
Senator Ejercito highlighted the concerns of motorists who legally purchase and install aftermarket mufflers, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between compliant and non-compliant modifications. Asec. Lacanilao affirmed the LTO's commitment to a fair and clear implementation of regulations.
The LTO reiterates that mufflers purchased from authorized dealers, which are branded and have undergone the necessary processes to meet national standards, are generally not subject to apprehension. These compliant aftermarket mufflers, often equipped with catalytic converters, meet established noise and emission standards. Therefore, motorists with such legal mufflers are not required to carry certifications from manufacturers or assemblers to prove their legality. The LTO recognizes that products that pass through the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) processes are inherently compliant with national standards.
Conversely, the LTO will continue to strictly apprehend vehicles fitted with illegally assembled mufflers that do not adhere to DTI standards or lack essential emission control components like catalytic converters. These often produce excessive noise and harmful emissions, contributing to both noise and air pollution and violating existing regulations. The agency's objective is to ensure road safety, maintain public order, and protect environmental quality by curbing the use of non-standard, disruptive, and polluting vehicle accessories.
