Question & AnswerQ&A (LTFRB Memorandum Circular No. 2015-004)
The primary purpose of LTFRB Memorandum Circular No. 2015-004 is to supplement Memorandum Circular No. 2009-029 regarding the year model proposed as a substitute for authorized taxi units, specifically focusing on the required specifications and measurements of taxi units.
The LTFRB exercises its powers pursuant to Executive Order No. 202, Section 5, paragraph k, which authorizes it to formulate, promulgate, administer, implement, and enforce standards and/or measurements and/or designs of public utility vehicles.
Four-door compact or smaller sedans which were not allowed under previous Memorandum Circular 2009-029 are now allowed as taxi units, provided they meet the required specifications.
For sedans with piston displacement greater than 1200 cc, the minimum dimensions are: Overall length - 4280 mm; Overall width - 1695 mm; Overall height - 1470 mm; Wheelbase - 2500 mm.
They shall have a lifespan of thirteen (13) years pursuant to Department Order 2004-42.
An additional two (2) years of lifespan is granted to LPG-converted sedans pursuant to Memorandum Circular 2006-069.
For sedans with piston displacement of 1200 cc or less, the minimum dimensions are: Overall length - 3990 mm; Overall width - 1625 mm; Overall height - 1455 mm; Wheelbase - 2405 mm.
They shall have a lifespan of only ten (10) years commencing from the date of manufacture as stated in their Certificate of Registration.
Mandatory safety features include: Front seat 3-point seatbelts and rear seat 2-point seatbelts, front SRS airbags for driver and front passenger (effective January 1, 2016), third brake lamp, side impact beams, hydraulic brake system, child safety lock, and remote luggage trunk opener.
Prescribed comfort features include rear legroom of at least 650 mm (distance from rear seat cushion to front seatback cushion when front seat is fully retracted backwards) and a luggage compartment with an actual measured volume of at least 310 liters.
The implementation of front SRS airbags (driver and front passenger) became strictly mandatory starting January 1, 2016.
All issuances inconsistent with this memorandum circular are superseded and amended accordingly upon its effectivity.
It took effect immediately after filing three copies with the UP Law Center pursuant to Presidential Memorandum Circular No. 11, dated October 1992. The filing date was January 27, 2015.