Manila, May 19 -- Clutching a folder containing his application form, proof of identity, as well as his medical and theoretical driving course certificates, Sam Bales, 17, made his way to the Land Transportation Office (LTO) in Legazpi City to apply for a student driver's permit.

The teen from Daraga town enrolled in a driving school, hoping to earn his license as a graduation gift to himself following his completion of senior high school on May 16.

Akin to a quiet rite of passage, Bales said that learning to drive is his first step toward adulthood.

"To achieve my dream, I need to focus on passing the LTO's theoretical exam and the practical driving test. I need to work hard because, as was stressed during my theoretical driving cours...