An Ordinance Regulating the Use of Drones in the Municipality of Tuba

The Tuba Local Government Unit enacted the Tuba Drone Regulation Ordinance of 2025 to ensure the safe, legal, and responsible use of drones within the municipality.

Commercial drone operations, as well as flights in public places, during events, and in populated areas, are required to secure a Local Drone Operation Permit (LDOP) prior to operation.

The following acts are strictly prohibited: flying drones over crowds without proper authorization, conducting night flights without permission, and engaging in activities that violate an individual’s right to privacy.

Penalties shall be imposed for violations of this ordinance, as follows:

– First offense: ₱500.00

– Second offense: ₱1,500.00

– Third and any subsequent offense: ₱2,500.00, with drone confiscation, suspension of operating privileges, and possible legal action

The following are exempt from securing a Local Drone Operation Permit (LDOP), subject to prior coordination and compliance with national regulations:

– Government agencies conducting disaster response, security monitoring, or official operations

– Licensed media organizations with CAAP authorization

– Educational and research institutions using drones for approved academic purposes

The Tuba Municipal Police Station is authorized to inspect drone operations, issue citations, apprehend drones used in violation of this ordinance, and confiscate drones when necessary, provided that due process is observed.

Confiscated drones shall be held for a period of up to sixty (60) days, pending payment of fines, resolution of administrative proceedings, or the outcome of any legal action.

Repeated violations may result in the revocation of local drone registration.