Introduction of the 2004 Optional Motor Vehicle Special Plates (OMVSP)
- OMVSP uses numeric characters 01-100 paired with three-letter alpha characters.
- Format can be either 3 letters + 2/3 numbers.
- Letters "I", "O", and "Q" are included despite prior special usage; "O" must use a different font to avoid confusion with zero.
- Use of these letters increases the supply and eliminates shortage issues.
- Additional revenue is generated by charging higher fees for plates with preferred or special combinations, such as triple-alpha, triple-numeric, or specific numeric patterns.
Coverage of OMVSP
- Applies only to brand new private motor vehicles.
- Eligible vehicle types include cars, SUVs, Asian Utility Vehicles (AUV), sports pick-ups, and commuter vans.
- Plates are considered regular (one pair) but have special numbering.
Exclusions from OMVSP
- Public utility vehicles
- Cargo trucks (private/for hire)
- Service vehicles (hotel limousines, ambulances, rent-a-cars, funerals hearses)
- Vintage vehicles
- Government vehicles
- Diplomatic or official executive vehicles (OEV)
- Used imported or surplus motor vehicles
- Vehicles with more than four wheels
New Vehicle Registration Statistics
- Approximately 130,000 to 150,000 new vehicles registered yearly.
- New numbering system will augment available license plate combinations to accommodate these registrations.
Acquisition Process and Pricing Scheme
- Applications accepted at all authorized LTO Regional, District, and Central Offices.
- Fees based on plate combination:
- Php25,000 for any triple-alpha and non-triple alpha + 2-digit numbers from 01-99.
- Php15,000 for any triple-alpha and non-triple alpha + the number 100.
- Php15,000 for other special requested combinations such as triple-numeric, and patterns like 168, 101, 707.
- Fees include handling charges via authorized LTO courier.
- Additional payment of standard vehicle registration fees required.
Specifications of OMVSP
- Same color scheme and design as regular plates: green embossed alpha-numeric characters and borders, green slogan "Matatag na Republika," and center graphics featuring the Rizal Monument.
- Issued in pairs and considered regular license plates.
- Special fonts applied, particularly for letter "O" to prevent confusion.
Supersession and Incorporation of Existing Rules
- Existing related rules and regulations incorporated by reference.
- Any conflicting rules are modified or superseded by this Order.
Effectivity of the Order
- The Order becomes effective 15 days after publication in two newspapers of general circulation.
- Required filing of three copies with the University of the Philippines Law Center completed.