QuestionsQuestions (LTO MEMORANDUM)
The quoted document is the LTO Memorandum titled “REGISTRATION OF MOTORCYCLES WITH INCOMPLETE DOCUMENTS,” adopted on October 25, 2007.
The memorandum states that some LTO district heads/officers-in-charge allowed and accepted the registration of motorcycles even when the documents were incomplete (e.g., absence of the Certificate of Stock Report from dealers).
They were directed to cease effecting registration of motorcycles (and other motor vehicles) that are not properly documented.
It extends beyond motorcycles: the directive applies to “motorcycles including all other motor vehicles” that are not properly documented.
The memorandum specifically cites the absence of the Certificate of Stock Report from dealers as an example of incomplete documentation.
It characterizes that practice as “irregular” and “against the existing policy” of the Office.
They must strictly adhere to the rules and regulations of the LTO; those found violating the order shall be dealt with severely.
It warns that all concerned officials and employees who violate the order shall be dealt with severely, implying disciplinary action.
An LTO memorandum functions as an administrative directive that guides and constrains how lower LTO offices apply registration policies; it establishes procedural requirements that must be followed.
It means that LTO personnel should stop processing and approving registrations for units whose documentary requirements are incomplete.
If the Certificate of Stock Report from the dealer is required and is missing, the memorandum indicates the registration should not be effected because the vehicle would not be properly documented.
It reflects a compliance-and-enforcement principle: proper documentation is a prerequisite to registration, and deviations by field offices are not allowed.
After the memorandum, the district head must stop allowing such registrations and must strictly adhere to LTO rules and regulations for properly documented vehicles.
A possible argument could be reliance on prior practice; however, the memorandum declares the prior practice irregular and against policy, so the registrant may face challenges (e.g., revalidation/rectification) depending on existing procedures and how the LTO implements compliance.