Republic Act No. 3992, also known as “The Revised Motor Vehicle Law,” holds a significant place in the history of the Philippines’ Land Transportation Office (LTO) and its regulations. Enacted on January 1, 1933, this legislation marked a crucial amendment to Republic Act No. 3045, reshaping the governance of motor vehicles within the archipelago.

In here, we will explore the key provisions, changes, and subsequent amendments that have shaped the landscape of Philippine traffic laws over the years.

The Birth of Republic Act No. 3992

At the heart of Act No. 3992 was the transformation of the Automobile Division into the Division of Motor Vehicles. This change not only reflected the evolving nature of transportation but also laid the foundation for a more comprehensive approach to regulating motor vehicles. The head of this division was now designated as the Superintendent of the Division of Motor Vehicles, a title that would play a pivotal role in the enforcement and administration of the law. 

Key Provisions of RA 3992

Republic Act No. 3992, enacted on January 1, 1933, is known as “The Revised Motor Vehicle Law” in the Philippines. The provisions of this Act include information related to the following:

Division of Motor Vehicles

Establishment and organization of the Division of Motor Vehicles, including the role of the Superintendent.

Licensing and Registration

Requirements and procedures for obtaining driver’s licenses and the registration of motor vehicles.

Traffic Rules and Regulations

Stipulations regarding traffic rules, road safety, and regulations for motorists.

Penalties and Enforcement

Outlining penalties for violations and the mechanisms for enforcement.

Amendments and Revisions

Provisions for amendments to the act over time, reflecting changes in circumstances or advancements in transportation.

Relationship to Previous Legislation

Clarification on how Act No. 3992 relates to and amends Republic Act No. 3045.

It’s important to note that Republic Act No. 3992, has specific provisions that provide more nuanced information about the regulations and guidelines established by the legislation which includes control over the registration and operation of motor vehicles; the licensing of owners, dealers, and chauffeurs; the carrying of lights on all vehicles; and all similar matters. 

Amendments and Evolution

Republic Act No. 3992 didn’t just get enacted. For over 30 years, the law existed as a guideline for transport regulation. Over the years though, several amendments were introduced to refine and adapt the legislation to the changing needs of society. Some amendments include Commonwealth Act Numbers 123, 548, 556, and 652, along with Republic Act Numbers 314, 587, and 2383, which played crucial roles in shaping the law. These amendments addressed emerging challenges, technological advancements, and the growing complexities of the motor vehicle landscape before it was repealed by Republic Act 4136, otherwise known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code in June 1964.  

Commonwealth Act Numbers 123, 548, 556, and 652

The amendments introduced through Commonwealth Acts addressed various aspects of motor vehicle regulation. They aimed to enhance safety standards, streamline administrative processes, and ensure the smooth operation of the Division of Motor Vehicles. As traffic patterns and the number of vehicles on the roads evolved, so did the legal framework governing them.

Republic Act Numbers 314, 587, and 2383

The subsequent amendments under Republic Acts continued the trajectory of refining and updating Act No. 3992. They responded to the dynamic nature of transportation, incorporating new technologies, and addressing emerging issues such as environmental concerns and traffic management.

Republic Act 4136

On June 20, 1964, R.A. 4136, otherwise known as the “Land Transportation and Traffic Code” was enacted abolishing the Motor Vehicle Office and creating the Land Transportation Commission. This law likewise partially repealed Act No. 3992. The Code provided that the Land Transportation Commission shall “control as far as they apply, the registration and operation of motor vehicles and the licensing of owners, dealers, conductors, drivers and similar matters.” To effectively carry out its mandate, the Land Transportation Commission later became the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and established numerous LTO offices in various parts of the country.

Republic Act 3992 vs Republic Act 4136

Republic Act No. 3992 and Republic Act No. 4136 are both significant pieces of legislation in the Philippines. While both played a crucial role in the regulation of motor vehicles and traffic in different eras, there are some slight differences between the new and the old law. Let’s compare the key features of these two acts:

Key Information about Republic Act No. 3992

• Enactment Date: January 1, 1933.
• Amendment of: Republic Act No. 3045
• Renaming of Division: The Automobile Division was renamed the Division of Motor Vehicles.
• Leadership Title: The head of the Division of Motor Vehicles was referred to as the Superintendent.
• Amendments: Republic Act No. 3992 underwent amendments through Commonwealth Act Numbers 123, 548, 556, 652, and Republic Act Numbers 314, 587, and 2383.

Key Information about Republic Act No. 4136

• Enactment Date: June 20, 1964.
• Scope: Known as the “Land Transportation and Traffic Code,” RA 4136 is a comprehensive law covering various aspects of land transportation, traffic rules, and vehicle registration.
• Creation of Agencies: This act led to the establishment of key agencies such as the Land Transportation Commission (LTC) and the Land Transportation Office (LTO).
• Licensing and Registration: RA 4136 introduced detailed provisions regarding the licensing of drivers, registration of vehicles, and the issuance of license plates.
• Penalties: The law outlines penalties for violations, emphasizing safety measures and responsible driving.

Comparison Notes between RA 3992 and RA 4136

• Enactment Period

RA 3992 predates RA 4136, having been enacted in 1933, while RA 4136 came into effect in 1964, reflecting changes and advancements in transportation over the decades.

• Scope and Detail

Compared with RA 3992, RA 4136 is a more comprehensive law, covering a broader range of topics related to land transportation and traffic rules. It addresses licensing, registration, penalties, and the creation of key agencies, providing a more detailed regulatory framework.

• Evolution

While RA 3992 underwent amendments to adapt to changing circumstances, RA 4136 represents a more substantial legislative effort, incorporating a wider array of provisions to address the complexities of modern transportation.

Summary

As a predecessor to the current Land Transportation and Traffic Code (RA 4136), Republic Act No. 3992 has contributed significantly to the regulation of motor vehicles in the Philippines. For over 30 years, RA 3992, along with its amendments, laid the foundation, which later served as the basis for RA 4136 to expand and modernize the regulatory framework, and shape the contemporary landscape of traffic laws in the country. The legislation somehow withstood the test of time as it was incorporated into the new laws and adjusted for the changing landscape of motor vehicles and transportation. The continuous amendments to RA 3992 highlights the agency’s commitment to ensure a safe, efficient, and regulated motor vehicle environment in the Philippines. As we move forward, understanding this historical journey helps us appreciate the complexities and nuances of modern traffic laws, laying the groundwork for a more informed and responsible motoring community.

The Student Fare Discount Law in the Philippines, officially known as Republic Act No. 11314, is a law aimed at providing students with discounted fares across various modes of transportation, including land, air, sea, and rail. Enacted on July 17, 2019, this law is, perhaps, one of the most significant initiatives aimed at easing the financial burden on students, ensuring that they can access education without shouldering the full cost of transportation. The law reflects the government’s commitment to supporting education and making it more accessible to a broader segment of the Filipino population.

Also Read: LTO Student Permit Requirements License Application

In a country where education is held in high esteem, the journey and struggles of students extends beyond the classroom. Hence, the government finds it necessary to serve the students as a beacon of support, aiming to alleviate the transportation burdens on the shoulders of students across the nation by providing tangible financial relief when it comes to commuting to and from their educational institutions.

What is Republic Act 11314: Student Fare Discount Act Philippines

The Republic Act No. 11314, also known as the Student Fare Discount Law, is a comprehensive legal framework designed to provide students with tangible financial relief when it comes to commuting to and from their educational institutions. It was considered a landmark legislation, mandating discounts and establishing a system where educational institutions play the pivotal role of issuing identification cards that certify a student’s enrollment and eligibility for the fare discount.

The law was enacted on July 17, 2019 and has been in effect since then. Covering various modes of transportation, including land, air, sea, and rail, the law outlines specific provisions, eligibility criteria, and discount rates to ensure that the benefits reach students at all levels of education. It not only created a symbiotic relationship between educational institutions and transportation providers, but also ensured the smooth implementation of this program by fostering accessibility and affordability for students navigating the diverse landscapes of the Philippines for their educational pursuits.

Key Points of the Student Fare Discount Law (Republic Act No. 11314)

The Student Fare Discount Law is a significant initiative aimed at easing the financial burden on students, ensuring that they can access education without shouldering the full cost of transportation. It reflects the government’s commitment to supporting education and making it more accessible to a broader segment of the population.

Some of the most important provisions offered by the Student Fare Discount Law are as follows:

Coverage
The law applies to all levels of education, encompassing elementary, secondary, tertiary, and technical-vocational levels.

Discount Rates
It mandates a 20% discount for students on regular domestic fares. The discount rates may vary for different modes of transportation, including land, air, sea, and rail transport.

Eligibility
To avail of the fare discount, students must be enrolled in elementary, secondary, or tertiary schools, including technical-vocational institutions. The law covers Filipino citizens studying in the Philippines.

Identification Cards
Educational institutions are responsible for issuing identification cards to their students. These cards serve as proof of enrollment and eligibility for the fare discount.

Responsibilities of Transport Providers
The law outlines the responsibilities of transport providers to implement and enforce the fare discount. Failure to comply may result in penalties.

Implementation
The law also outlines the responsibilities of transport providers to implement and enforce the fare discount, as well as the penalties for non-compliance.

Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR)
The finer points and more specific guidelines and mechanisms for implementing the law are detailed in its IRR, providing more clarity on its application.

Scope of the Discount

This discount typically applies to various modes of public transportation, including buses, jeepneys, and trains. It aims to make commuting more accessible for students, enabling them to attend classes, participate in extracurricular activities, and engage in community events without shouldering the full financial burden of transportation.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the student fare discount, students need to meet specific eligibility criteria. These often include being enrolled in a recognized educational institution, carrying a valid student ID, and maintaining a satisfactory academic standing. Requirements may vary slightly among different transportation providers, so it’s crucial for students to familiarize themselves with the specific guidelines.

How to Secure the RA 11314 Discount

Upon meeting the eligibility criteria, students can obtain their student fare discount cards or vouchers. These cards are typically issued by the educational institution or a relevant government agency. Students must present these cards when availing transportation services to enjoy the discounted fares.

Challenges and Advocacy

While the student fare discount program is a valuable resource, there have been challenges in its implementation. Some students may face difficulties in acquiring or renewing their discount cards, leading to advocacy efforts for smoother processes and increased awareness.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

The law punishes non-compliance. After due investigation proves any complaint against any public transportation utility (PUV) to be true and valid, the following penalties shall be imposed as herein specified:

For Land Public-Transportation Utilities, including tricycles

The driver shall suffer the penalty of suspension of driver’s license for the following period:

• Suspension of driver’s license for one (1) month for the first offense;
• Suspension of driver’s license for two (2) months for the second offense;
• Suspension of driver’s license for three (3) months for the third offense; and
• Suspension of driver’s license for three (3) months plus a fine of One thousand pesos (₱1,000.00) for each subsequent offense.

For the owner or operator of the land public transportation utility

• A fine of Five thousand pesos (₱5,000.00) for the first offense;
• A fine of Ten thousand pesos (₱10,000.00) and impounding of unit for thirty (30) days for the second offense; and
• A fine of Fifteen thousand pesos (₱15,000.00) and cancellation of Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) for the third and subsequent offenses.

For Sea/Water Public Transportation Utilities

The owner or operator of the sea/water public transportation utility responsible for the refusal or failure shall be penalized with a fine of:

• A fine of five thousand pesos (₱5,000.00) for the first offense;
• A fine of ten thousand pesos (₱10,000.00) for the second offense;
• A fine of twenty thousand pesos (₱20,000.00) for the third offense; and
• A fine of additional increments of Ten thousand pesos (₱10,000.00) on top of the fine for the third offense for each subsequent offense.

For Air Public Transportation Utilities

• A fine of Fifty thousand pesos (₱50,000.00) for the first offense;
• A fine of One hundred thousand pesos (₱100,000.00) and a warning for the second offense; and
• A fine of One hundred fifty thousand pesos (₱150,000.00) and other sanctions as may be determined by CAB, for the third and subsequent offenses; and

For Rail Public Transportation Utilities

• All rail public transportation utilities are mandated to observe the aforesaid fare discount privilege and designate a student/senior citizen fare booth in their boarding stations. Violations of the law would entail being sanctioned or fined under the existing civil service rules.
• For privately-operated rail public transportation utilities, the amount of fines prescribed will be as follows:
  • A fine of Five thousand pesos (₱5,000.00) for the first offense;
  • A fine of Ten thousand pesos (₱10,000.00) and impounding of unit for thirty (30) days for the second offense; and
  • A fine of Fifteen thousand pesos (₱15,000.00) and cancellation of Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) for the third and subsequent offenses.

Upon filing of an appropriate complaint, and after due notice and hearing, the proper authorities may also cancel or revoke the CPC, permit to operate, franchise, licenses and other privileges granted to the transportation utilities who fail to comply with the provisions of this Act.

Use of Falsified Identification Documents and Misrepresentation

Any person who avails or attempts to avail of the privileges under this Act through the use of falsified identification documents, fraud or any form of misrepresentation shall be denied said privileges and may be subject to civil and penal liabilities prescribed by law.

Where to Complain

A student who is refused the fare discount privilege under this Act may file a complaint with:

• The LTFRB for land public transportation utilities, except tricycles;
• The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) for sea/water public transportation utilities;
• The Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) for air public transportation utilities;
• The Legal Service of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) for rail public transportation facilities, including the Manila Light Rail Transit System, the Manila Metro Rail Transit System and the Philippine National Railway System; and
• The Office of the Local Chief Executive of the local government unit concerned for tricycles.

These agencies and offices are authorized to impose the penalties provided for in Section 10 of RA 11314 to public transportation utilities that refuse or fail to grant the student their well-deserved fare discount privilege.

Tips for Students

For the students who are the primary beneficiary of this law, here are some tips to remember in order to keep enjoying the privilege afforded by this law:

• Stay Informed: Regularly check for updates on eligibility criteria and application processes to ensure compliance.
• Keep Your ID Handy: Always carry your valid student ID and discount card to avail of the benefits seamlessly.
• Advocate for Improvement: Participate in advocacy efforts to address challenges and improve the overall effectiveness of the program.

Important Notes

Here are some important notes to remember about the Student Fare Discount Law (Republic Act No. 11314) in the Philippines:

• Enactment and Implementation: The law was enacted on July 17, 2019, and it is actively implemented to provide discounted transportation fares for students.
• Coverage: The law covers students at all levels of education, including elementary, secondary, tertiary, and technical-vocational levels.
• Discount Rates: Students are entitled to a 20% discount on regular domestic fares. Different modes of transportation may have varying discount rates.
• Eligibility Criteria: To qualify for the fare discount, students must be enrolled in recognized educational institutions in the Philippines. The law generally applies to Filipino citizens.
• Identification Cards: Educational institutions are responsible for issuing identification cards to their students. These cards serve as proof of enrollment and eligibility for the fare discount.
• Responsibilities of Transport Providers: Transportation providers, including those in land, air, sea, and rail transport, have the responsibility to implement and enforce the fare discount. Non-compliance may result in penalties.
• Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR): The specific guidelines and details for the implementation of the law are outlined in its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR). This document provides additional information on processes and procedures.
• Penalties for Non-Compliance: The law imposes stiff penalties on transport providers who fail to comply with the mandated fare discounts. This ensures that the benefits reach the intended beneficiaries – the students.
• Collaboration with Educational Institutions: The successful implementation of the Student Fare Discount Law relies on collaboration between transportation providers and educational institutions. This partnership ensures the smooth issuance and verification of student identification cards.
• Advocacy and Awareness: Students, educational institutions, and transport providers are encouraged to actively participate in advocacy efforts to raise awareness about the law. This helps ensure that eligible students are informed about their entitlements and can readily access the fare discounts.

It is always important to stay updated on any changes or amendments to the law and its implementing guidelines, as these may evolve over time. Students and transportation providers may also check for and refer to official government sources for the most current information on the Student Fare Discount Law in the Philippines.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

For your reference, here are some of the most common questions and answers related to RA 11414 or the Student Fare Discount Law in the Philippines:

1. Who is eligible for the student fare discount in the Philippines?

Students who are enrolled in the elementary, secondary, tertiary levels, as well as those enrolled in technical-vocational (tech-voc) institutions in the Philippines are all eligible for the student discount. This includes all Filipino citizens studying domestically.

2. How much is the discount provided under the Student Fare Discount Law?

The law mandates a 20% discount on regular domestic fares. Specific rates may vary for different modes of transportation such as land (buses, jeepneys), air, sea, and rail transport.

3. What modes of transportation are covered by the Student Fare Discount Law?

The law covers various modes of transportation, including land (buses, jeepneys), air, sea, and rail transport.

4. How do students prove their eligibility for the fare discount?

Students need to present identification cards issued by their educational institutions to avail of the student discount. These student ID cards serve as proof of enrollment and eligibility for the student privilege and discounts in the transportation sector.

5. What are the responsibilities of educational institutions under the law?

Educational institutions are responsible for issuing identification (ID) cards to their students and certifying their enrollment status. This is their share of responsibility in the collaboration prompted by this law to ensure its effective implementation in all parts of the country.

6. Are there penalties for transport providers who do not comply with the law?

Yes, the law outlines penalties for non-compliance by transport providers. This is to ensure that the fare discount is consistently implemented. The penalties may vary depending on the type of transportation service but they all entail fines and penalties ranging from a fine of Five thousand pesos (₱5,000.00) to Fifteen thousand pesos (₱15,000.00).

7. Can foreign students studying in the Philippines avail of the student fare discount?

No. The law specifically covers Filipino citizens. That said, foreign students may not be eligible unless they are also Filipino citizens.

8. Are there specific guidelines for the implementation of the Student Fare Discount Law?

Yes, the law has Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) that provide detailed guidelines for its effective implementation.

9. How often do students need to renew their identification cards for the fare discount?

The renewal frequency for identification cards may vary. It’s advisable for students to check with their educational institutions for specific renewal procedures.

10. Can the student fare discount be applied to special fares or promotions offered by transportation providers?

The law generally applies to regular domestic fares. Special fares or promotions may have different terms, so students need to check with the specific transport providers for clarification.

Summary

In the dynamic landscape of the Philippines, the Student Fare Discount Law, Republic Act No. 11314, stands as a beacon of support for the nation’s aspiring minds. Covering elementary to tertiary education, the law mandates be a 20% discount on the transportation fares of students, in an attempt to foster an environment where financial constraints do not hinder the pursuit of education. By providing tangible support in the form of fare discounts, the Philippines is investing in its future, empowering students to overcome barriers and reach new heights and creating a more inclusive and accessible educational landscape for the vibrant youth in the country. By understanding the basics, navigating eligibility criteria, and actively participating in advocacy efforts, students can make the most of this program, making education more accessible and empowering the youth for a brighter future.

Contact Information

For more information or inquiries regarding the provisions of the law in relation to land transport systems, except tricycles, you may reach out to:

Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB)

Office Address: LTFRB Central Office, Brgy. Pinyahan, East Avenue, Quezon City
Email Address: pacd@ltfrb.gov.ph, complaints@ltfrb.gov.ph
Facebook: fb.com/ltfrb.central.ph
24/7 Hotline: 1342

Department of Transportation (DOTr) (For Railway Transport complaints, ask for the legal service department)

Office Address: The Columbia Tower, Brgy. Wack-wack, Ortigas Avenue, 1555 Mandaluyong City, Philippines
Official Website: www.dotr.gov.ph
Trunkline: 8790-8300/8790-8400