DOTC DEPARTMENT ORDER NO. 96-978

: The order exempts followers of the Sikh faith wearing turbans from the mandatory use of crash helmets while driving motorcycles.
: Subsubsection 54 of Subsection (letter L) of Section III of Department Order No. 93-693 is amended.
: The original provision imposes fines/penalties for failure to use crash/protective helmets while driving motorcycles.
: No, only followers of the Sikh faith who wear turbans are exempted from the helmet requirement.
: All law enforcement officers, deputies, and agents are ordered to refrain from apprehending them.
: It took effect fifteen (15) days after receipt of copies by the Office of the National Administrative Register and publication in a newspaper of general nationwide circulation.
: They are deemed revoked, amended, or revised accordingly.
: The turbaan is the religious headwear worn by Sikhs, and its wearing is the basis for the helmet exemption under this Order.
: The Office of the National Administrative Register (ONAR), U.P. Law Center, Diliman, Quezon City.
: The exemption is based on Department Order No. 96-978 issued by the DOTC, recognizing religious freedom and cultural practices.