Color-Coded Body Numbers Assignment for Taxi and Mega Taxi Units
- All taxi and mega taxi units based or operating within Metro Manila must be assigned color-coded body numbers by the LTFRB.
- Color codes and number ranges start from A-0001 to A-9999, then B-0001 to B-9999, and so forth.
- Color coding depends on the operator's LTFRB-recorded address, classified into Western, Central, Northern, Southern, Eastern areas, and special designations for NAIA-based and operators with 50+ units.
- Specific background and body number colors are prescribed for each geographical area to facilitate easy identification.
Placement and Specifications of Color-Coded Body Numbers
Color-coded body numbers must be painted on:
- Rear door on both sides
- Inner portion of passenger sides
- Rooftop of the unit
Size specifications include:
- Body Number: 9 inches x 20 inches
- Background size varies for AUVs (26" x 17.5") and cars/sedans (23" x 17.5")
Additional painting on rear and front bumpers or hoods is required with smaller size specifications.
- AUVs have color-coded numbers below the back windshield instead of rear bumpers.
Toplights and Additional Identification Requirements
- Taxi and mega taxi units must have toplights indicating availability:
- Lighted for vacant
- Unlighted for hired
- Taxi trade name and telephone number must be painted on front doors in sizes not exceeding body numbers.
- Color-coded body numbers must appear on the rear doors.
- Taxi companies with 50 or more units may retain original company vehicle color.
Department of Tourism (DOT) Slogan and Stickers
- All taxi and mega taxi units are required to display the DOT slogan and stickers.
- These stickers are issued upon DOT accreditation and must be updated annually.
- The DOT sticker is a criterion for vehicle registration renewal.
Mandatory Taxi Equipment
- Required equipment includes:
- Fire extinguisher
- First aid kit
- Built-in two-way radio system
- Taximeter with receipt (coupon taxis excluded)
- Taxi info pads must be available for passengers at all times.
Uniform Requirements for Taxi Drivers
- Drivers must wear white polo shirts with names stitched or stenciled on the front and upper right back.
- Uniforms may include markings indicating:
- Bars for years of service (1 bar = 2 years)
- Stars for commendations (1 star = 1 commendation)
Procedures for Taxi and Mega Taxi Operations
- Franchise Application (every five years):
- Taxis must secure a franchise from LTFRB.
- LTFRB assigns color-coded body numbers upon franchise issuance.
- Accreditation (annual) by DOT and Confirmation by LTFRB:
- Drivers and units must obtain accreditation from the DOT following compliance with standards.
- LTFRB inspects units for color-coded number compliance and confirms accreditation.
- Registration with LTO (annual):
- Units with LTFRB confirmation and DOT accreditation register with the LTO yearly.
- Issuance of Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) and Sticker by LTFRB (annual):
- Presentation of current Official Receipt and Certificate of Registration required for CPC and sticker issuance.
Implementation Schedules and Penalties
- Specific timetable based on vehicle plate endings for securing color-coded body numbers (May 15 to July 30).
- Upon receiving color-coded numbers, units and drivers must seek DOT accreditation.
- DOT inspects units for full compliance.
- Units not yet confirmed apply for confirmation on the usual schedule.
- Non-compliance may lead to non-issuance, suspension, cancellation, or revocation of franchise.
Supersession and Effectivity
- This circular supersedes any inconsistent prior issuances.
- It takes effect fifteen (15) days after publication in the Official Gazette, a newspaper of general circulation, or filing with the UP Law Center.