MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has announced it will review the accreditation of medical clinics after lawmakers flagged excessive and unexplained fees being charged to driver’s license applicants, including miscellaneous and computer fees not regulated by the agency.

On March 18, 2026, the LTO confirmed that it does not currently monitor or regulate the additional charges imposed by accredited medical clinics, such as the ₱140 miscellaneous fee and ₱60 computer fee collected on top of the standard ₱300 medical examination fee. LTO Executive Director Martin Ontog clarified that these extra charges do not go to the government, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.

The issue came to light during a House Committee on Transportation hearing led by Quezon City 3rd District Representative Franz Pumaren. Lawmakers questioned why clinics were unable to explain what the miscellaneous and computer fees covered, with some claiming they were part of “IT charges.” Pumaren stressed that the lack of clarity undermines public trust and burdens applicants who are already facing rising costs.

The LTO said it will conduct a review of its accreditation process to ensure that clinics adhere to fair and transparent pricing. Officials acknowledged that while the agency sets the ₱300 medical exam fee, it has no oversight over additional charges, leaving applicants vulnerable to arbitrary costs.

The House panel emphasized that medical examinations are a mandatory requirement for driver’s license applications, making it essential that fees remain reasonable and well-documented. “We cannot allow clinics to impose unexplained charges on applicants,” Pumaren said, adding that reforms must be introduced to protect the public.

The controversy has sparked calls for stricter regulation of accredited clinics and greater transparency in the licensing process. Advocacy groups argue that the government must ensure that mandatory services remain affordable and accessible, especially for low-income applicants.

As the LTO begins its review, the outcome could lead to tighter rules on clinic accreditation and clearer guidelines on allowable fees. For now, driver’s license applicants are advised to be vigilant about charges and demand official receipts for all payments made during the medical examination process.