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How to Book an Appointment for LTO Theoretical Driving Course (TDC)

If getting a driver’s license from the Land Transportation Office (LTO) is the gateway to freedom, then the Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) certificate of completion is one of the gatekeepers. To get through this gatekeeper, you will need to meet the requirements. In this case, it’s in booking an appointment for an LTO Theoretical Driving Course (TDC). After all, once you have one, you can just attend your class and get through it with a TDC certificate. 

Sure, having to sit for a 15-hour Theoretical Driving Course doesn’t sound like something fun, but since it is mandatory, you kind of have no say about it. The only thing you can do is to get it done as soon as possible to enjoy the privilege to drive sooner. The first step is to book an appointment for an LTO Theoretical Driving Course.

book lto tdc appointment

What is TDC

TDC stands for the Theoretical Driving Course. It is a 15-hour mandatory classroom plus practical driving education required by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) from all aspiring Filipino drivers. It is divided into three modular sessions, covering topics involving the LTO as well as the safe use of motor vehicles on the road. It is a recent addition to the already long list of requirements when applying for a driver’s license at the LTO, and is available online, at any LTO Driver Education Center (DEC), or at any LTO-accredited institutions nationwide. 

The TDC is a particularly important course, especially if you are seeking to secure a Student Driver’s Permit. Once you secure a Student-Driver’s Permit, you may already be allowed to get a Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL) after one month, provided that you complete all the necessary steps set by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) of the Philippines for Non-Professional Driver’s License application.

Benefits of Booking an Appointment for a TDC Slot

Aside from being a requirement when applying for a Student Driver’s Permit, the TDC also offer the following benefits those who take it: 

  • It promotes safer roads.
  • It promotes better driver attitude.
  • It promotes more technical understanding of road signages.
  • It promotes clearer driver intuition.
  • It supports the government’s resolution to “fix” and “resolve” the unrelenting traffic issues that thousands of Filipinos experience on a regular basis.
  • It gives the student driver a better understanding on how to develop better driving attitude.
  • It also offers more technical understanding of road signages.
  • It restricts the acquisition of Student Driver’s Permit, ensuring that only the most qualified get a license to operate a motor vehicle.

Requirements for Booking an Appointment for a TDC Slot

Whether it is to be taken at a driving school, an LTO Driver Education Center (DEC), or any other LTO-accredited institution, the first step to taking the TDC is to book an appointment and secure a slot. Usually, once you have a schedule booked for the Theoretical Driving Course at any LTO office, only then can you work on securing the necessary documents:

  • Original and one (1) photocopy of the PSA/NSO Certificate of Live Birth;
  • Original and one (1) photocopy of one (1) valid government-issued identification card;
  • If married: Original and one (1) photocopy of the PSA marriage contract;
  • One (1) piece of 2×2 ID picture; and
  • A printed copy of the Theoretical Driving School Student List with the student’s name highlighted.

Procedures for Booking an Appointment for a TDC Slot

To book an appointment for a TDC slot, then these are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Locate an LTO-accredited driving school in your area, or if you wish to take the TDC for free, find an LTO Driver’s Education Center (DEC) where you wish to take the TDC from. 

Step 2: Once you have found a school to take your TDC classes from, you will need to reach out to them to check on the procedures of securing a slot for the TDC. 

Step 3: Once you know the procedures, let them know (via their booking forms or whatever scheduling process is being used at that school for the Theoretical Driving Course (TDC).

Step 4: After making an appointment to secure a TDC slot, wait for them to reach out to you and confirm your schedule.

Step 5: When the schedule is confirmed, you may already attend the three-session lectures, take the TDC exam, and secure the TDC certificate. 

Note: If you somehow fail to hit the passing score on the exam, you may also retake the exam at the same place where you took it the first time until you pass, but only within 30 days. 

Important Reminders

For your reference, here are some important tips worth remembering:

  • The Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) is now available online and offline for both the LTO DEC and the LTO-accredited driving school
  • To take the TDC face-to-face, you would need to ensure that you observe the following reminders:
    • Come on time so you do not miss your selected class schedule
    • Do not miss your chosen schedule to avoid getting your name taken off the class list.
    • Bring an original copy of your PSA birth certificate or PSA marriage certificate along with one valid government-issued ID. School IDs and proof of enrollment are also accepted for student applicants.
    • Bring your vaccination card.
    • Bring a black or blue-inked pen.
    • Wear your face mask properly. 
    • Check if they require face shields.
    • Get there early as only 40 applicants will be accommodated per day.
    • Make sure you personally go for the class by sending a proxy to sit in for you.
    • Do not wear shorts, sleeveless shirts, and slippers.
    • Bring your own snacks.
  • Participants of the free course can anticipate that the course will cover essential topics such as fundamental road signs, regulations, markings, maneuvers, courtesy, right of way, and other crucial driving practices and knowledge. 
  • The TDC is an important step for LTO to adequately equip future drivers with the proper knowledge and to keep them away from going the easy route and hiring fixers.

Video: Free TDC Certificate for Student Driver’s Permit Applicants

In this video, you can follow and learn from GeeTee Garage as he walks you through the step by step procedures to secure a free TDC Certificate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

For other questions and concerns, you may consult this list of commonly asked questions and their answers:

1. Where can I book an appointment for a TDC class?

Taking the TDC can be done from any LTO branch office, DLRO, DO, or EO, or LTO Driver’s Education Center (LTO DEC) which offers one or from any private LTO-accredited driving school in the Philippines.

2. How much does TDC cost?

If you are taking the TDC at an LTO branch or any of the LTO DEC nationwide, then the course is free. However, if you prefer going through a driving school, the price for face-to-face sessions range from Php 1,500.00 to Php 2,500. Online TDC offered by private driving schools is cheaper, with a fee ranging from Php 1,000.00 to Php 1,500.00.

3. How long is the validity period of the Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) and the TDC certificate? Does it expire?

Yes, it has an expiry date. That said, you need to use it within one year. After one (1) year, the TDC certificate can no longer be used as a prerequisite for the Practical Driving Course (PDC). However, you may still use it to apply for a Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL) provided that you have gone through the practical driving course and had it completed within the same one (1) year validity period.

4. What is the passing score of the TDC exam?

Unlike the others, the TDC randomized quizzes come every after one module and it requires getting 80% correct answers to pass. The course is valid for 30 days so the exam can be retaken until then.

5. Is the TDC required when applying for a student driver’s permit?

Yes. You will need to present your Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) Certificate before you can apply for and be issued a student permit. To get the certificate, you must first complete the 15-hour course at any LTO Driver’s Education Center or LTO-accredited driving school and pass the TDC exam.

Summary

To date, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) still requires individuals who are applying for a driver’s license to complete the Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) as a prerequisite to obtaining the privilege to drive. It’s an important process, but it does make the process of acquiring a license a bit more expensive than it used to be. Unfortunately, the certificate of completion to prove that you have gone through the 15-hour TDC is a non-negotiable requirement so if you want a license, you just need to learn about how to get yourself enrolled in a theoretical driving class. 

Contact Information

To learn more about available TDC schedules, you may reach out to LTO via:

Land Transportation Office (LTO)

LTMS portal: Visit the LTO’s official website and fill out their Contact Us form at https://portal.lto.gov.ph/ords/f?p=PUBLIC_PORTAL:CONTACT_US:115716301949471.
Phone call: You may contact them at their telephone number (632) 922-9061 to 66.
Email: You may also send them an email at clientcare@lto.gov.ph.
LTO Text Hotline Service: You may use LTO’s nationwide SMS service for drivers and vehicle owners by typing LTOHELP and sending it to 2600
LTO office: For information, you may check the LTO branch closest to you.

Hand-Over-Hand vs. Push/Pull Steering Techniques

Mastering the right steering technique is essential for safe and efficient driving. The proper steering technique not only enhances vehicle control but also reduces the risk of injury and fatigue. Two common methods are hand-over-hand and push/pull steering, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks.

Choosing between these two techniques requires an understanding of how each one works and their respective advantages. Hand-over-hand steering allows for quick and sharp turns but can increase the risk of tangling hands and injury from airbag deployment. Push/pull steering, on the other hand, provides greater control and reduces strain, making it a safer and more efficient choice for most driving situations. Considering these, it is necessary to understand how each one can be used safely, especially for new drivers. 

Hand-Over-Hand vs. Push/Pull Steering Techniques driving

Hand-Over-Hand vs. Push/Pull Steering Techniques

Before you can decide whether to use the hand-over-hand or push/pull steering technique, it is important to understand the mechanics and benefits of each method. Evaluating your driving needs and the typical scenarios you encounter will help you determine which technique is more suitable. Additionally, practicing both techniques in a safe environment can provide practical insights into which method feels more comfortable and offers better control for you. Let’s explore these two common steering techniques along with their pros and cons and learn how to master this technique for safer driving.

Hand-Over-Hand Steering

Hand-over-hand steering is a technique often used for making sharp turns. Although it is not recommended as frequently as push/pull steering due to safety concerns, it can be useful in specific situations where quick steering is necessary. 

While hand-over-hand steering has some drawbacks, it can be useful in specific scenarios such as:

  • Sharp Turns: This method can be effective for sharp, low-speed turns where quick steering is required.

  • Parking Maneuvers: Tight parking spots often necessitate the use of hand-over-hand steering to navigate confined spaces.

Push/Pull Steering

Push/pull steering, on the other hand, is a recommended technique for maintaining control and safety while driving. It involves using both hands to alternately push and pull the steering wheel. 

Push/pull steering is particularly useful in a variety of driving situations like:

  • Everyday Driving: Ideal for routine driving maneuvers, including navigating through traffic and making standard turns.

  • Emergency Situations: Provides the control needed to quickly and safely maneuver around obstacles in emergency situations.

  • Long Drives: Reduces driver fatigue, making it suitable for longer trips where comfort and endurance are important.

Benefits

Regardless of the type of steering technique used, each one has a good and bad side to it. For bow, ket’s first look at the good side:

Hand-Over-Hand Steering

  • Best for quick and sharp turns 

  • Useful in tight spaces where rapid steering adjustments are necessary

  • Provides enhanced maneuverability in situations that require significant steering input. 

  • Drivers can turn the wheel more in a shorter amount of time, 

  • Perfect for complex driving maneuvers.

  • Intuitive for some drivers 

  • It’s familiar and can make steering more comfortable and less stressful in certain driving conditions

Push/Pull Steering

  • Offers better control of the vehicle, especially in emergency situations

  • Allows precise movements 

  • Reduces strain on the arms and hands compared to other steering techniques, 

  • Reduces fatigue and the risk of repetitive strain injuries.

  • Enables smoother, more efficient turns and adjustments

  • Improves overall vehicle handling

  • Keeps hands in a safer position, 

  • Reduces the risk of injury from airbag deployment

Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s the step-by-step guide on how to effectively use these two steering methods: 

Hand-over-hand Steering Method

Step 1. Initial Hand Position

Place your hands on the steering wheel at the 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock positions. This is your starting point for most steering maneuvers.

Step 2. Begin the Turn

To start the turn, decide the direction you want to go. For a left turn, your left hand will pull down while your right hand pushes up. For a right turn, the reverse applies.

Step 3. Crossing Hands

As you turn the wheel, your leading hand (the one pulling down) will cross over the wheel while your other hand slides around to keep control. For a left turn, your left hand will cross over to the right side of the wheel.

Step 4. Continue the Motion

Continue the hand-over-hand motion until the turn is completed. This involves continuously moving your hands over one another, switching positions as necessary to keep turning the wheel.

Step 5. Returning to Center

Once you’ve completed the turn, reverse the motion to straighten the wheel. Use the same hand-over-hand technique but in the opposite direction. Your hands should return to the 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock positions.

Push/Pull Steering Method

Step 1. Hand Positioning

Start by positioning your hands at the 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock positions on the steering wheel. This is your default hand position.

Step 2. Initiate the Turn

For a Left Turn:

  • Left Hand: Begin by pulling the steering wheel down with your left hand.

  • Right Hand: Simultaneously, your right hand pushes the wheel up.

For a Right Turn:

  • Right Hand: Pull the steering wheel down with your right hand.

  • Left Hand: Push the wheel up with your left hand.

Step 3. Alternating Movements

  • Continue the motion by alternating between your hands. As one hand pulls down, the other hand slides along the wheel and pushes up.

  • Keep your movements smooth and controlled to maintain stability and precision.

Step 4. Completing the Turn

When the turn is completed, allow the steering wheel to return to the center position by loosening your grip slightly. The natural motion of the vehicle will help realign the wheels.

Step 5. Returning to Center

If necessary, use the same push/pull method in reverse to straighten the wheel. This ensures your hands stay in the correct positions throughout the maneuver.

Risk and Safety Considerations

While push/pull steering is generally preferred due to numerous benefits in terms of control, efficiency, and safety, drivers should be aware that each steering method comes with its own set of potential risks so drivers need to take the time to practice and familiarize themselves with the technique to mitigate any challenges they may encounter on the road.

Hand-over-Hand Steering

  • Risk of Tangling: Hand-over-hand steering increases the risk of your hands getting tangled, which can lead to loss of control. Be cautious and deliberate with your movements.

  • Airbag Deployment: If your hands are in the wrong position during an airbag deployment, serious injuries can occur. Push/pull steering keeps your hands in safer positions.

  • Fatigue: This method can cause more strain and fatigue over time compared to push/pull steering.

  • Less Efficiency: Hand-over-hand requires more movements to achieve the same result, making it less efficient and harder to maintain control in difficult conditions.

  • Risk of Repetitive Strain: It puts more strain on the arms and hands, increasing fatigue and the risk of repetitive strain injuries.

Push/Pull Steering

  • Less Intuitive for Some Drivers: While push/pull steering is generally recommended for its safety and efficiency, some drivers may find it less intuitive initially, especially if they are accustomed to hand-over-hand steering. This can lead to a learning curve and potential errors in steering technique, particularly during high-pressure or emergency situations.

  • Potential Oversteering: Because push/pull steering involves alternating movements between both hands, there is a risk of oversteering if not executed correctly. Oversteering can lead to the vehicle veering off course or losing control, especially at higher speeds or on slippery road surfaces.

  • Limited Effectiveness in Tight Spaces: In extremely tight or confined spaces, such as parallel parking or navigating through narrow alleyways, push/pull steering may not offer the same level of precision as hand-over-hand steering. This can result in difficulty maneuvering the vehicle accurately and may require additional adjustments to avoid obstacles or collisions.

  • Initial Discomfort for Some Drivers: Initially, drivers may experience discomfort or unfamiliarity when transitioning to push/pull steering, particularly if they have been using a different technique for an extended period. This discomfort can affect their confidence and effectiveness in using the method, potentially leading to hesitation or suboptimal steering behavior.

Tips for Effective Steering

For better steering, here are some tips to help you execute each steering method regardless of which one you prefer to use:

Hand-Over-Hand Steering

  • Smooth Movements: Ensure your movements are smooth and controlled to maintain vehicle stability. Avoid jerky or sudden motions.

  • Hand Placement: Keep your hands relaxed but firm on the wheel to reduce strain and maintain control.

  • Practice: As with any driving technique, practice in a safe environment until you are comfortable with the motions.

Push/Pull Steering

  • Smooth Movements: Avoid jerky or sudden movements. Smooth and steady motions help maintain vehicle stability.

  • Hand Relaxation: Keep your hands relaxed but firm on the wheel. Tension can lead to fatigue and reduced control.

  • Practice: Regular practice in a safe environment, such as an empty parking lot, can help you become more comfortable and proficient with the technique.

Video: Hand-over-hand vs Push/Pull Steering: Which is Better?

Safe driving starts with proper techniques and a well-maintained vehicle, so it’s best to understand and practice steering as part of your driving routine. To better understand the different steering techniques, you may check out this video from Helpful DIY. 

Summary

Mastering the different steering methods enhances your driving safety and comfort. By following the steps outlined above and practicing regularly, you can ensure that you have greater control over your vehicle, reduce strain on your body, and maintain better overall safety on the road. Choose the proper steering method and make it a key part of your driving technique to enjoy a more confident and enjoyable driving experience.

How to Get Comprehensive Driver’s Education (CDE) Certificate 

A Comprehensive Driver’s Education (CDE) Certificate is a certificate issued by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) upon the completion of one of the two Driving Education Program (DEP), the other being the Driver Reorientation Course (DRC) the Comprehensive Driver’s Education (CDE) course. It is a mandatory requirement that needs to be submitted to the LTO upon renewal of an LTO driver’s license. 

The CDE certificate is an easy requirement to acquire. All you need is to complete the five (5) hour mandatory refresher course for drivers and motorcycle riders and pass the written exam at the end of the course. Nonetheless, we dare say it’s a pretty effective deterrent for those who aren’t hell-bent on keeping their license and the privilege to drive legally on Philippine public roads. After all, not everyone has the time nor the patience to sit for the CDE for nothing. 

cde certificate Comprehensive Driver’s Education

What is a CDE Certificate?

A CDE certificate is a free, no-expiry certificate that proves that one has completed the five-hour Comprehensive Driver’s Education mandated by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) from anyone who wishes to renew their driver’s license in the Philippines. It is like a diploma for the CDE course, designed in accordance with the provisions of Republic Act (RA) 10930, and it ensures that the drivers know and remember everything they should before they qualify for a driver’s license. 

Getting a CDE certificate means that you have finished the CDE refresher course and got at least thirteen (13) correct answers out of the 25-item multiple-choice exam known as the CDE online validation exam. It means that you have acquired the necessary knowledge and skills in driving, road safety, and proper road etiquette to have your license renewed. It is also one of the requirements for renewing into one with ten-year validity. It may be taken in person at any LTO-accredited driving schools, at the LTO Driver’s Education Center (LTO DEC) in select LTO offices, or online, via the Land Transport Management System (LTMS) portal.

Getting the CDE certificate means that you have reviewed the following topics covered by the CDE: 

  • Road Safety
    • Road etiquette, especially when dealing with stress and road rage

    • Traffic accident causes and how to avoid them

    • Engine breakdowns causes and how to avoid them

    • Roadside emergencies and how to respond and act accordingly

    • Driver’s duties, responsibilities, and legal rights

  • Traffic Rules and Regulations
    • Road discipline

    • Identifying traffic signals, traffic signs, and road markings

    • Proper usage of highways and expressways

  • Land Transportation-Related Laws
    • RA 4136, including:
      • Traffic and administrative rules 

      • policies and regulations

      • fines, penalties, and demerit system

    • Special laws on driving, such as:
      • Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act (RA 10586)

      • Seatbelt Law (RA 8750)

      • Anti-Distraction Driving Law (RA 10913)

      • Child Safety in Motor Vehicle Act (RA 11229)

Benefits of Having a CDE Certificate

A CDE certificate also comes with several benefits:

  • It is a free refresher course on driving basics, road safety, and the rules of the road.

  • It does not have an expiration date.

  • The exam can be taken as many times as possible, for free via the LTMS portal

  • For only five hours, you can get a crash course on safe driving, road safety, traffic rules and regulations, and other LTO laws

  • The certificate proves that you have done your due diligence regarding updating yourself on new LTO laws

Who Needs a CDE certificate

The CDE certificate is available to everyone who wishes to know more about driving and road rules. It is also a necessary requirement for all holders of professional and nonprofessional driver’s licenses(PDL/NPDL) due for renewal. The certificate proves that the applicant has completed the mandatory five-hour course consisting of six (6) major topics about everything they need to know so they can drive safely on the roads. 

When is the CDE Certificate Required

Pursuant to Section 27 of the IRR of RA No. 10930, all license holders of 5-year validity driver’s licenses must undergo the CDE on road safety and proper road courtesy upon their first renewal. 

The same IRR states that the CDE certificate is a mandatory requirement for the following licensing transactions: 

  • Plain renewal of driver’s license holders that were issued student-driver’s permit prior to 03 August 2020; 

  • Renewal of driver’s license with miscellaneous license transactions (e.g., revision of records, additional driver’s license code/s, etc.);

  • Renewal of expired Philippine driver’s license with a valid foreign driver’s license (continuity Philippine driver’s license); 

  • Renewal of driver’s licenses with five or more demerit points (in addition to the completion of driver’s reorientation course); 

  • Renewal of driver’s licenses of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and Filipinos living abroad in addition to the conditions provided under Section 9.4.4 of the Supplemental IRR of RA No. 10930; 

  • Renewal of licenses expired for more than two (2) years in addition to the requirements provided under Section 9.4.2 of the Supplemental IRR of R.A. No. 10930; and

  • Advance renewal for Filipinos with imminent travel out of the country as provided under Section 12.1 of the Supplemental IRR of R.A. No. 10930. 

How to Get a CDE Certificate

To get a CDE certificate, one must first take the mandatory CDE course. Then, they need to pass the 25-item CDE Validation Exam. This can be taken in any of the LTO offices in the Philippines or from the comforts of your own home, via the LTMS portal. 

Fees

As mentioned, the CDE course is free. Likewise, the Certificate also doesn’t cost a thing. You don’t have to spend anything to get a CDE certificate, except for your time and effort. Anyone who tells you otherwise is lying. 

Where to Get a CDE Certificate

Just like the CDE course, the CDE certificate can be taken from any LTO District Office (DO), Extension Office (EO), Driver’s License Renewal Office (DLRO), or LTO DEC or online via the LTMS portal.

Important Reminders

For your reference, here are some tips worth remembering:

  • The CDE course and exam can be accessed online for free anytime using the driver’s license applicant’s LTMS account. 

  • The E-Learning module accessed via the LTMS Portal can only be accessed one at a time, with a predefined order and time limit so it cannot be skipped or bypassed by any applicant before taking the examination component.

  • The timestamp for starting and completing a topic is recorded and the access to subsequent topics shall be restricted until the time allotted for the preceding topic has elapsed. 

  • In cases where the applicant is technologically challenged or has difficulty using the available facility, the Chief of Office may provide a randomized pen-and-paper test. 

  • If an LTO office is short of equipment to access or answer the COE Online Validation Examination, it is the discretion of the Chief of Office to provide a randomized pen-and-paper test. 

  • The pen-and-paper test sheets shall be signed by the Driving Skills Rater and the Chief of Office. 

  • In order to pass the CDE culminating exam, the applicant must correctly answer at least eighty percent (80%) of the twenty-five (25) questions randomly selected from the bank of questions. 

  • The examination shall be administered with a duration of not more than thirty (30) minutes. 

  • The use of cellular phones and any other gadgets, including smart phones/watches, books and other forms of printed materials and all other similar items while taking the examination is not allowed. 

  • For those who take the CDE examination onsite, after the completion of the course and passing the required examination, the applicant will be issued a Certificate of Course Completion (COC) which shall be electronically transmitted in real-time to the LTMS by the facility.

Video: How to Get Free CDE Certificate Online 

Learn how to get your free CDE certificate online by watching this video from Pinoy Car Guy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

For more information, you may check this list of commonly asked questions:

1. Are all driver’s license holders required to secure a CDE certificate to renew their licenses?

No. A CDE certificate is no longer required for the renewal of all driver’s license holders that were issued with Student-driver’s Permit on or after 03 August 2020, and those who have renewed to their current driver’s license on or after 28 October 2021. 

2. Can I get my CDE certificate online? 

Yes. You simply need to visit the LTMS portal, register for an LTMS account, take the CDE course and online validation exam, then you’ll be able to get your CDE certificate. 

3. Is the CDE certificate free? 

Taking the CDE online validation exam and securing the CDE certificate online, via the LTMS portal, is free of charge. 

4. Can I retake the CDE exam if I fail?

Yes. You can retake as many times as you want. It’s free too, so taking it repeatedly shouldn’t cause much trouble.

5. How long is the CDE exam required for the CDE certificate?

It only takes about 30 minutes to complete the 25-item multiple choice exam online. 

Summary

The Comprehensive Driver’s Education is a course designed in compliance with Section 27 of the (IRR) of R.A. No. 10930 as a requirement for the initial renewal of the five (5)-year validity driver’s license. The CDE certificate of completion signifies that the course has been completed and that you have successfully passed the culminating written exam. The CDE certificate proves that you know your stuff so you can safely be let out on the road. 

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