the first time I heard about the Land Transportation Office (LTO) holding a public auction of unclaimed vehicles, I thought it was a rumor. A friend said, “You can actually buy a car at a fraction of the price — legally!” Of course, my skeptical brain went straight to “Scam alert!” But after a bit of digging (and a few phone calls to verify), I realized it’s completely legitimate — and it happens regularly.
If you’ve ever wondered where impounded or abandoned vehicles end up, here’s your insider look at how it all works — and how you might just drive home a bargain.
What’s This Auction About?
The LTO (Land Transportation Office) Philippines is holding a Notice of Public Bidding for the disposal of unclaimed and impounded motor vehicles. These are vehicles that have been apprehended and left unclaimed since 2023 and earlier.
📅 Date: November 18, 2025
🕑 Time: 2:00 PM
📍 Venue: Bulwagang R.F. Edu, LTO Compound, East Avenue, Quezon City
The bidding will follow an “as-is, where-is” rule — meaning what you see is what you get. No warranties, no touch-ups. The vehicles are sold in their current condition, so potential bidders are encouraged to inspect them beforehand.
Why It Matters — And Why It’s Fair
According to Presidential Decree No. 1729, government agencies like the LTO can dispose of abandoned or unclaimed vehicles through public auction. This keeps impound lots from overflowing and ensures transparency in how these assets are handled.
The proceeds usually go toward government funds and operations — so while you might snag a deal, you’re also indirectly helping improve transport systems.
👉 Did You Know?
Under the same decree, owners are given sufficient time to reclaim their vehicles before auctioning. Only when all notices and waiting periods lapse does the LTO include them for bidding.
How to Join the Auction (Step-by-Step)
If you’re interested in joining, here’s how you can get started:
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Coordinate with the LTO Secretariat.
Email: ltocduimv2025@gmail.com
Contact Numbers: (02) 8927 6789 / 0910 680 6935 -
Request the full list of vehicles.
Scan the QR code on the official notice to view all the available units. -
Inspect the vehicles.
You’ll be allowed to personally check the condition of the vehicles before the auction day. -
Prepare your sealed bid.
Bring valid identification, proof of funds, and follow all requirements provided by the LTO. -
Attend the bidding on November 18, 2025.
Arrive early! The event starts at 2:00 PM sharp at the LTO Compound, East Avenue, Quezon City.
My Honest Take (and Why I’d Go)
I once joined a similar government auction years ago — not for cars, but for surplus office equipment. I walked away with a working desktop for ₱800. It felt like treasure hunting in real life.
That same sense of possibility makes events like the LTO public auction exciting. Yes, you’ll need to be careful and realistic (these vehicles often need repairs). But if you’re handy with cars or simply curious, it can be a rewarding experience — financially and personally.
Things to Keep in Mind
Before you start imagining your new wheels, remember these few points:
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Vehicles are sold “as-is, where-is.”
Don’t expect brand-new conditions — bring a mechanic if possible. -
Not all units are road-ready.
Some may need major repairs or parts replacements. -
Bring patience and paperwork.
Government processes require documentation, so stay organized.
For peace of mind, double-check the official LTO website at lto.gov.ph or follow @LTOPhilippines on Facebook for updates.
Final Thoughts: Opportunity on Four Wheels
It’s easy to overlook public notices like this — they often blend into the background of social media noise. But this one from the LTO Philippines could be an unexpected opportunity for those who love fixing cars, starting a small business, or simply getting a good deal.
Who knows? You might just drive away from the LTO Public Auction not only with a vehicle but with a story worth sharing.
Would you ever consider joining one of these auctions? Tell me your thoughts or experiences in the comments below — I’d love to hear your side of the story. 🚗