Law Summary
Limitations
- Only authorized lead agencies or committees appointed by the DOTC Secretary can issue commemorative plates.
- Applications must state the total number of plates to be issued.
- Display period limited to six (6) months, with expiry date clearly indicated on the plate.
- Only one commemorative plate per vehicle, which is non-transferable.
- Plates/stickers cannot be sold or used for fundraising.
Eligibility to Apply
- Groups, organizations, or associations commemorating significant international, national, or historical events may apply.
- Applications require recommendations from appropriate government departments/agencies (e.g., DFA, National Historical Institute).
- Final approval by the Secretary of Transportation and Communications (DOTC).
Procedure for Securing and Issuing Commemorative Plates
- Upon approval by the Secretary, applicants must submit to LTO:
- Approved authority.
- Sample plate and sticker designs.
- Authorized personnel names and positions.
- Certified vehicle registration documents.
- Other LTO-required documents.
- LTO arranges manufacturing through accredited suppliers.
- Production cost to be borne by applicant directly with suppliers.
- Plates/stickers strictly issued to authorized vehicles only.
- Plates surrendered before expiration are recorded by LTO and not reissued.
Installation Guidelines
- Commemorative plates must be placed over the front regular plate; removal of regular plates is prohibited.
- Commemorative plates must not cover or replace rear plates.
- Law enforcers and LTO agents may inspect plate installation.
- Stickers must be affixed at the upper right corner of the front windshield.
Duration of Use
- Use duration corresponds to authorized period, prominently marked on the plate/sticker.
- Upon expiration, plates and stickers must be immediately removed from vehicles.
Recording and Fees
- LTO will promulgate appropriate regulations for recording and control of commemorative plates.
- A recording fee of thirty pesos (P30.00) per plate is payable at LTO Central Office.
Penalties for Violations
- Violations subject to fines as per Department Order No. 93-693 including:
- Improper display: P300.00
- Display of regular plates improperly to highlight commemorative plates: P500.00
- Expired commemorative plates: P500.00
- Illegal use or use without authority: P2,000.00
- Fines imposed on the motor vehicle owner.
Repealing Clause
- Any prior orders, memoranda, circulars, rules, and regulations inconsistent with this Order are modified, amended, or superseded.
Effectivity
- The Order takes effect 15 days after receipt by the Office of the National Administrative Register (ONAR) and publication in a newspaper of general circulation.