Law Summary
Issuance of "For Hire" Number Plates to Converted Vehicles
- Converted vehicles (previously private, now "for hire") must be issued new "for hire" number plates differing from their former private plates.
- Available unissued "for hire" plates stored in the registering office are to be used for this purpose.
- Preferably, the last digit of the new plate number should match the month of registration; if this is not feasible, any available plate may be issued.
- The issuance of "for hire" plates to properly registered vehicles cannot be delayed or postponed.
Recording and Documentation of Plate Transfers and Issuances
- All classification changes and plate transfers must be logged in a dedicated logbook.
- Entries should include surrendered private plate numbers, issued "for hire" plate numbers, vehicle file numbers, motor and chassis numbers, and owner details.
- Another logbook specifically tracking surrendered private plates issued to other private vehicles must also be maintained.
- Vehicle registration documents (Certificate of Registration and Official Receipt) of converted vehicles must display both new "for hire" plates and previous private plate numbers (with the latter in parentheses).
- Registration documents of vehicles receiving surrendered private plates must indicate the plate number along with the letters "SR" to denote "surrendered number plates" issuance.
Inventory and Redistribution of Unissued "For Hire" Number Plates
- Regional LTO offices are required to conduct a physical inventory of all unissued "for hire" plates promptly.
- Within one month of the order's effectivity, these plates must be equitably allocated and distributed to district offices.
- Proper documentation and accounting procedures in line with applicable rules must be observed.
- Regional offices must submit copies of inventories and distribution reports to the LTO Assistant Secretary within two months.
Supersession and Amendment of Prior Orders
- Any prior orders, memoranda, or issuances conflicting with this Administrative Order are superseded, amended, or modified accordingly.
Effectivity of the Administrative Order
- The Order takes effect 15 days after filing copies with the National Administrative Register and publishing in a newspaper of general circulation once a week for three weeks.
Additional Clarifications
- Surrendered private plates must be returned to the Central Office’s Plate Section for mutilation by the Philippine Manufacturing Plant to avoid confusion and duplication if re-issued.
- Strict compliance with the prescribed procedures and recording systems is mandated to ensure proper implementation and accountability.