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LTO Region 11 – Southern Mindanao (Davao) Region 

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) Region 11, also known as the LTO Southern Mindanao Region or LTO Davao Region, is one of the regional divisions of the LTO in the Philippines. Like the Central Office, this regional office also manages and oversees the LTO agencies in the cities and municipalities within the territorial jurisdiction of Region 11. The LTO branch agencies within the region, on the other hand, carry out the projects and enforce the LTO rules and regulations in the cities and municipalities within each geographical area of responsibility (GAOR). The LTO Southern Mindanao (Davao) Region regional office, along with its LTO agencies, ensures that the Secretariat and its services are accessible, making it easier for both the public and the agency to work together towards a safer, more efficient, more convenient, and more affordable land transport service in Southern Mindanao.

Region 11 is famous for many things. From its forestland and fertile fields, to the rich reserves of gold, copper, manganese, and nickel, and the rich communities of various cultural groups, Davao region can’t help but attract thousands of small scale miners as well as commercial explorers within its territory, making it an ideal spot for local government offices and public service. 

lto region 11 southern mindanao office region

What is LTO Region 11? 

The Southern Mindanao Region or Davao Region, officially designated as Region 11, is an administrative region in the southeastern part of the island of Mindanao. It is a developing center for agro-industrial business, trade and tourism, and is located at the Southeastern portion of the Mindanao islands surrounding the Davao Gulf. It is composed of five (5) provinces, namely, Davao Oriental, Davao del Norte, Davao de Oro (formerly Compostela Valley), and Davao del Sur, and five (5) cities, including one (1)  independent city and four (4) component cities: Davao City, Panabo City, Tagum City, Digos City, and Island Garden City of Samal. These provinces and cities house various LTO agencies within its jurisdiction and it is these LTO agencies that make up what is collectively known as LTO Region 11 (LTO Southern Mindanao Region). 

The regional center of Southern Mindanao (Davao Region) is Davao City—the city known as the “Land of Promise” and the city that serves as one of the largest cities and gateway to Mindanao. It also serves as the regional center and business hub in these parts, making it easier for the LTO to bring its core programs and services closer to the over 5.2 million people in the region. 

Mission and Vision of LTO Region 11

Like the other LTO agencies and regional offices, the LTO Region 11 also operates under the same mission and vision as that of the LTO Central Office.

Mission

To rationalize the land transportation services and facilities and effectively implement the various transportation laws, rules and regulations. It is the responsibility of those involved in the public service to be more vigilant in their part in the overall development scheme of the national leadership. Hence, promotion of safety and comfort in land travel is a continuing commitment of the LTO.

Vision

To be a frontline government agency showcasing fast and efficient public service for a progressive land transport sector. 

Functions of LTO Region 11

All the LTO agencies share the same purpose and functions as that of the LTO Central Office. The same rings true for the agencies under the LTO Region 11.

The LTO functions offered in the Region 11, include:

  • Inspection of motor vehicles 
  • Registration of motor vehicles
  • Issuance of license and permits
  • Collection of fees and penalties
  • Enforcement of land transportation rules and regulations, and 
  • Adjudication of traffic cases
  • Collection of revenue for the government

LTO-Serviced Cities and Municipalities in Region 11

With LTO working to be a more efficient and convenient frontline agency, they have set up branch offices in various strategic locations within Region 11.

These offices are as follows:

List of LTO Agencies in Region 11

LTO also placed 14 different types of field offices under the jurisdiction of LTO Region 11. These offices are strategically placed so the agency can serve as many different areas in the Southern Mindanao (Davao) region and are categorized as follows:

  • District Offices (DO)
    • Davao City South District Office
    • Davao City North District Office
    • Digos District Office
    • Malita District Office
    • Samal District Office
    • Panabo District Office
    • Tagum District Office
    • Davao De Oro District Office
    • Mati District Office
  • Driver’s License Renewal Office/Center (DLRO/DLRC)
    • DLRO Toril
    • DLRO Buhangin
    • DLRO Digos
    • DLRC Tagum
  • Mobile Unit
    • LTO E-Patrol Sulop

List of Services Offered by LTO Agencies in Region 11

All the LTO programs and services are designed to monitor and ensure road safety and promote progress for the local land transport sector. The same is true for the LTO offices in Region 11.

Some of these common LTO services include:

  • License And Permit
    • Student Permit
    • New Driver’s License (Non-Professional)
    • Conductor’s License
    • Plain or Advance Renewal of Driver’s/Conductor’s License and Renewal of Driver’s License of Filipino Living Abroad
    • Miscellaneous License Transactions
    • Renewal of Driver’s / Conductor’s License with Examination [Expired for more than two (2) years] and/or with ten (10) or more but less than forty (40) Demerit Points
    • Change Classification from Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL)  Code to Professional Driver’s License Code with Same Driver’s License (PDL) Code
    • Additional Driver’s License Code/s
    • Conversion of Foreign Driver’s License to Philippine Driver’s License Including Renewal of Expired Philippine Driver’s License with a Valid Foreign Driver’s License
    • Change Classification from Professional Driver’s License (PDL) Code to Non-Professional Driver’s License Code (NPDL), Dropping of DL Code and Change Clutch Type
    • Request for System Updates (RSU) for Double License
    • Request for System Update (RSU) for License and Customer Details/Misrepresentation of Age/Identity
    • Accreditation of Medical Clinics – New
    • Accreditation of Medical Clinics – Renewal
    • Registration of Physicians – New
    • Registration of Physicians – Renewal
    • Accreditation of Driving School / Driving Enhancement Program Training Center – New
    • Accreditation of Driving School / Driving Enhancement Program Training Center – Renewal
    • Accreditation of Driving Instructor – New
    • Accreditation of Driving Instructor – Renewal
    • Examination for Driving School Instructors
    • Driving Enhancement Program (DEP)
  • Vehicle Registration
    • Initial Registration of Motor Vehicle (MV)
    • Renewal of Motor Vehicle (MV) Registration
    • Storage of Motor Vehicle
    • Miscellaneous Transactions
    • Re-Stamping of Engine/Chasis Number
    • Request for Motor Vehicle Verification
    • Motor Vehicle Inspection
  • Miscellaneous Transactions
    • Duplicate OR/CR
    • Duplicate Plate
    • Transfer of Ownership
    • Annotation & Cancellation of Mortgage
    • Revision of Records
    • Duplicate License (for Lost Licenses)
  • Insurance
  • Proper Driver Education
  • Law Enforcement
    • Settlement of Admitted Apprehension
    • Adjudication of Contested Apprehension
    • Encoding of Alarm
    • Filing of Complaint and Lifting of Alarm
    • Lifting of Alarm (Traffic Adjudication Service)
    • Certification of No Pending Apprehension and Alarm
  • Collection of fees from law enforcement violations
  • Drug testing
  • Emission testing
  • Inventory of Plates
  • The use of self-service kiosks 
  • Process Application for New Driver’s License (DL) via the Automated Driver’s License Examination System (ADLES) Facility 
  • Accreditation 

Note that while all of these services are offered by LTO, some of them may not be readily available in certain offices in Southern Mindanao (Davao Region) due to limited facilities. That is why, it is best to check with your preferred LTO branch first to see if they are offering the service you require before you make the trip.

How to Contact LTO Region 11

All of the LTO offices are created to be accessible so the services can reach the people faster. They are also strategically located so they can better regulate the drivers and vehicles and maintain road safety in the region. The Secretariat also ensures that all of their services reach the people who need them through an LTO office. As such, you need to be able to reach out to the LTO Region 11 regional office or to any of the LTO agencies within, either by making a call, sending an email, or sending a message to their official social media accounts. They may also visit any of the LTO agencies in Region 11.

Contact Information 

For information, questions, concerns, or complaints, you may contact LTO Region 11 via the following:

Land Transportation Office Region 10 – Office of the Regional Director

Agency Code: 1100
Office Address: LTO MVIS Compound Quimpo Boulevard, Davao City
Telephone Number: (082) 226-4141
Head of Agency: Dir. Neil M. Cañedo, MBA
Email Address: ltorxi@yahoo.com.ph, ltodavao@gmail.com
Operating Hours: 8AM – 5PM (Mondays-Fridays)

Where is Southern Mindanao (Davao) Region — Region 11

Davao Region, formerly known as Southern Mindanao Region, is an administrative region in the Philippines, designated as Region 11. It lies at the southeastern portion of Mindanao, facing Micronesia in the Southern Pacific Ocean to the east, and the Eastern Indonesia through the Celebes Sea to the south. It is comprised of five provinces: Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental and Davao Occidental. It is also home to one independent city and four component cities, namely, Davao City, Panabo City, Tagum City, Digos City and Island Garden City of Samal. Geographically, Davao Region is bordered, clockwise from the North, by CARAGA, the Philippine Sea, Davao Gulf, Celebes Sea, SOCCSKSARGEN, and Northern Mindanao. It is bounded on the north side by the provinces of Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Sur, and Bukidnon. On the east side, there’s the Philippine Sea. On the west of the region lies the Central Mindanao provinces. 

Google Map Location

To learn more about the different driving directions or travel routes to the Southern Mindanao (Davao) region or to the LTO Region 11 regional office, you may check on the maps below:

Southern Mindanao (Davao) Region

Land Transportation Office  (LTO) Region 11

No Helmet Violation Fee for Motorcycle Drivers Philippines

The No Helmet Violation refers to the violation incurred when a traffic enforcer or an officer from the Land Transportation Office (LTO) tags a driver for not wearing a helmet when driving or riding a motorcycle. Skipping out on the helmet is illegal, since wearing a helmet for motorbike riders is mandated by law in a bid to give extra protection, both to the driver and the passenger. Depending on the number of offenses and the citation, LTO can sanction a pently fee that ranges from P1,500.00 up to P20,000.00.

Helmets are safety gears designed to protect the head of both rider and passenger and promote overall ride safety. Because it serves as the rider’s main protection in case of accidents, the LTO works extra hard to ensure that everyone at least has this sort of protection, while riding their motorcycles on public roads.

no helmet violation fee motorcycle drivers philippines

What is the No Helmet Violation Penalty

A No Helmet Violation is the violation incurred when one drives or rides a motorcycle without wearing a helmet. If you are not aware, being on a motorcycle without a helmet is illegal and subject to apprehension and fines. Regardless of the form of roads or the length of trip that the riders are traveling, it is a must for them to wear a standard protective helmet as the main protection in case of accidents, thanks to the provisions of RA No. 10054, also known as the Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009.

As one of the most commonly violated laws in the country, the Motorcycle Helmet Act requires drivers and back riders to wear full-face protective motorcycle helmets with an Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) sticker. It was designed to secure and safeguard the citizenry. It is also designed for the operators or drivers of motorcycles and their passengers, as a preventive protection from the ruinous and extremely injurious effects of fatal or life threatening accidents and crashes. 

Aside from the riders, the Motorcycle Helmet Act also covers provisions requiring every seller and/or dealer to ensure that a new motorcycle helmet bearing the Philippine Standard (PS) mark and the Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) of the Bureau of Product Standards (BPS) is issued every time a new motorcycle unit is purchased. Failure to comply with the requirements provided also constitutes a violation of this law.

Who Is It For

The Motorcycle Helmet Act was especially created for the protection of all motorcycle riders. Under the law, all motorcycle riders must wear standard protective motorcycle helmets while driving, regardless if it’s a long or a short drive, and of the type of road and highway. The No Helmet Violation is a consequence of violating the Motorcycle Helmet Act.

Who are Exempted from Wearing Helmets

Like any law, even the Motorcycle Helmet Act has exemptions. In this case, drivers of tricycles shall be exempted from being tagged for No Helmet Violations since they are exempted from complying with the mandatory wearing of motorcycle helmets as provided for in the Motorcycle Helmet Act. 

How Much is the Fine or Penalty for No Helmet Violation

No Helmet Violation in the Philippines is one of the driving violations punishable by law. One who incurs this violation may be subjected to a fine ranging from P1,500.00 up to P20,000.00.

The penalties are imposed as follows:

  • Any person caught not wearing the standard protective motorcycle helmet.
    • First offense: P1,500.00

    • Second offense: P3,000.00

    • Third offense: P5,000.00

    • Fourth and subsequent offense: P10,000.00

  • Any seller and/or dealer who violates the provision requiring them to provide a new helmet that passes local safety standards for every purchase of a new motorcycle.
    • First and subsequent offense: not less than P10,000.00 but not more than P20,000.00

  • Any person who uses, sells, and distributes substandard motorcycle helmets or those which do not bear the PS mark or the ICC certificate.
    • First offense: P3,000.00

    • Second offense: P5,000.00

  • Tampering, alteration, forgery and imitation of the PS mark and the ICC certificates in the helmets.
    • First and subsequent offense: not less than P10,000.00 but not more than P20,000.00.

How to Settle No Helmet Violations

Settling a No Helmet Violation may vary depending on where the driver or operator of a motorcycle was apprehended. You may visit the Land Transport Management System (LTMS) portal and log in to check your violations and settle your payment there. Or, you may opt to visit the nearest LTO branch or satellite office closest to you.

When Should I Settle My No Helmet Violation

Motorcycle riders who were apprehended due to No Helmet Violation must settle their violation through the LTO within fifteen (15) days of the apprehension.

Important Reminders

For your reference, here are some important tips worth taking note of:

  • The No Helmet Violation is a resulting violation for not following the mandates of the Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009.

  • The Motorcycle Helmet Act not only covers non-wearing of helmets but also non-issuance of standard protective helmets.

  • The provisions of the law also penalizes manufacturers and dealers for issuance of substandard helmets. 

  • The Motorcycle Helmet Act is a law mandated to protect both the drivers and riders. 

  • Settling violations related to non-use of helmets can be done online by registering for an account on the LTMS portal or in person at the LTO branches.

Video: Settling the No Helmet Violation at the LTO

Learn more about how to settle your No Helmet Violations at the LTO by watching this video from Je, Ads TV:

https://youtu.be/DqJ6HtHqcvc

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

For more information, you may check the common questions and answers regarding the No Helmet Violation here:

1. Why is it illegal to not wear a helmet?

Helmets are one of the rider’s main protection in case of accidents. With the Motorcycle Helmet Act in place, the agency helps promote the use of this protective gear, by making it illegal to ride without one.

2. Is it mandatory to wear a helmet?

Yes. Riders and passengers who travel on any form of roads or highways, whether it is a short trip or long, must be wearing a standard protective helmet, thanks to RA No. 10054, also known as the Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009.

3. What are the allowed helmets in the Philippines?

To make sure you won’t get apprehended, you should be wearing a full-face helmet that bears an ICC sticker when riding a motorcycle. Of course, the helmet should also have passed local safety standards which certifies that the protective gear is safe to use. 

4. Are all helmets the same?

No. There are some helmets you can’t use while riding motorcycles in the Philippines. These are helmets that are not meant for motorcycles, like bike helmets, skateboard helmets, and others. In addition, some helmets don’t have an ICC sticker, so they can’t be used legally even if they are of the right type.

5. Is my back rider or passenger also required to wear a helmet?

Yes. Both the rider and the back rider or passenger are riding the same motorcycle and facing the same risks, so the two of them must be wearing the same appropriate helmet to help keep them safe on the road.

6. Who is exempted from wearing a helmet?

Only tricycle drivers are exempted from wearing a helmet. Other motorcycle riders are required to wear one at all times. Those riding small e-bikes are also encouraged to wear helmets whenever possible.

7. What are the different types of motorcycle helmets?

The different types of motorcycle helmets include:

  • Full-face helmet

  • Open-face helmet

  • Half helmets

  • Modular helmets

  • Dual-sport helmets

  • Off-road helmets

8. What is an ICC sticker for?

A helmet with an ICC sticker means that it meets the ICC standards and has passed the test to get an ICC Certification. The acronym stands for Import Commodity Clearance. The sticker is a Philippine Standard mark and is issued by the Bureau of Product Standards (BPS).

9. What does DOT, ECE, and Snell mean?

These are the different counterparts of the ICC Certification in other countries.

  • The DOT stands for the Department of Transportation in the United States. Having this sticker means that it passed the bare minimum standard for motorcycle helmets issued in the USA.

  • The ECE is also known as the Economic Commission for Europe. Helmets with the ECE stickers mean that they have passed the test to be legally issued in Europe. It is said that an ECE certification holds more power since the testing procedures are more stringent.

  • The Snell is a certification that is named after William “Pete” Snell, a racing driver who died after sustaining severe head injuries when his helmet failed to provide enough protection during a crash. That said, helmets with this certification usually belong to a special niche as they are primarily used by racing drivers/riders. They are usually lightweight and overengineered, making them more expensive than the traditional helmet.

Summary

The No Helmet Violation refers to violations against the Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009. It refers to non-use of helmets, which can pose risks to motorcycle riders and passengers. Due to the role played by helmets in the protection of the riders, the government has made it mandatory and breaking this rule entails a ticket, penalty, or fine after being tagged for No Helmet Violation.

How to Change Engine of Motor Vehicle in LTO

Changing the engine through “modification,” contrary to popular belief, is not prohibited, as long as it meets the standards of approved parameters. That means that modification of the engine or its basic components are allowed so long as it does not change the vehicle classification. Changing the engine in a way that affects its performance, so long as it does not compromise the road safety in any way, is not prohibited by the rules and regulations of the Land Transportation Office (LTO). 

Changing the engine of a vehicle, while not prohibited, still requires a Certificate of Road Safety from the manufacturer before it can be allowed. It is, however, subject to inspection by the LTO for possible reclassification. Aside from this, changing engines is allowed upon application for a permit to do so. 

change engine of vehicle in lto

LTO Vehicle Modifications: Change Engine

There are different types of car or vehicle modifications. However, for our purposes, we are only discussing the changes in engine for private and for-hire motor vehicles in the country. Just like other types of changes in motor vehicles though, a change in the engine of a motor vehicle inherently changes the factory original,  effectively customizing it to your needs and preferences. 

Changing a car engine is one of the more difficult modifications you can ever engage  in. It requires different approaches depending on whether the engine is new, rebuilt, or taken out of donor cars. Though the process of engine swap may vary depending on the make and model, most of the processes are fairly universal, so it is possible to check for a guideline of the procedures required.

Benefits of Changing the Engine of a Motor Vehicle

Being able to change your vehicle’s engine at will means enjoying the following benefits: 

  • You may upgrade your vehicle into one that suits your speed and performance preferences.

  • A change in vehicle engine may give the car a better resale value.

  • Depending on the type of engine source you choose, you may be able to enjoy a longer vehicle lifespan. 

  • You may be able to get a safer car, especially when swapping with a new motor as they usually have better performance.

  • It gives you freedom to decide how you want your car to perform.

  • You can save more money as engine swapping is cheaper than buying a new car.

Eligibility to Change the Engine of a Motor Vehicle

Just like when making any other type of modifications, changing the engine of a motor vehicle is allowed to anyone who owns a registered motor vehicle and who intends to swap engines for whatever reason. These changes are allowed by LTO, provided that those who are requesting for such change can present all the requirements and have the ability to pay all the relevant LTO fees.

LTO Requirements for Engine Swapping

Car modifications resulting in changes in the car engine may be allowed, but it has to be declared and permitted by the LTO. As such, engine swapping requires the car owners to inform the relevant authorities of the changes. When you are applying to change the engine of your motor vehicle, you need to be ready with the following list of documents.

General Requirements

The basic requirements include the following:

Additional Requirements

The need for additional documents may vary depending on the type of change the car owner wishes to apply for. For changes in the car body design, here’s a list of the additional requirements 

  • If For-Hire, LTFRB electronic confirmation 

  • Original and one (1) photocopy of Certificate of Stock Reported (CSR) and Sales Invoice

  • Original Deed of Sale/Deed of Donation of engine if sourced from previously registered motor vehicles acquired from different persons or entities

  • Original Joint Affidavit of Change Engine by owner

  • Latest original Official Receipt (OR) of Motor Vehicle User Charge (MVUC) and other LTO fees payment

  • Taxpayer’s Identification Number (TIN)

How to File Application for Change Engine of Motor Vehicles

Changing your vehicle engine is a simple LTO process. Like other LTO transactions, it requires submission of the documentary requirements mentioned above. 

Here’s the step-by-step procedure on how to apply for a swap engine of your vehicle:

Step 1: Visit the LTO Office closest to you. 

Step 2: Secure a queue number at the LTO officer-in-charge and wait for your turn.

Step 3: Once your number is called, proceed to the transaction counters. 

Step 4: Submit all the required documents to the Evaluator for evaluation and computation of fees.

Step 5: Once the evaluation is completed, get the actual inspection of motor vehicles with duly accomplished Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVIR) done.

Step 6: Once the MVIR is ready, proceed to the queue for the cashier window and wait for your turn.

Step 7: Once your name is called, pay for the necessary fees and secure an Official Receipt (OR).

Step 8: Once done, proceed to the Releasing Counter.

Step 9: Present the OR to get the new Certificate of Registration (CR), plates, stickers, and other requested documents.

Step 10: Once you have received the CR and other relevant documents, signs in the CR log book.

Where to File Application for Change Engine

Filing for a change in color for your motor vehicle can be done in any LTO Office, district, or extension offices, whichever is more convenient.

Fees for LTO Engine Swap Transactions

The procedures for engine swap for motor vehicles in LTO will require applicants to pay the following:

  • A total of one hundred pesos (P100.00) for the color change fee.

  • Other LTO fees (MVUC, etc.)

Important Reminders

For your reference, here are some things you need to remember when applying for a change in color:

  • Note that all types of changes are subject to inspection as it needs to be checked for safety and to ensure that the change will not cause harm to yourself and to others.

  • That said, the procedure always comes with other fees. 

  • Changing the engine of a motor vehicle is an optional procedure. 

  • It can be done at any of the LTO offices in the Philippines.

  • Engine swapping is only possible if it is compatible with your vehicle in terms of the following:
    • Fuel choice (gas, diesel, electricity)

    • Cylinder layouts (straight, in-line, V, flat)

    • Cylinder configurations (twin cylinder, three cylinder, four cylinder)

Video: Guide on the Requirements for Changing Engines in LTO

You can learn more about the procedures on how to change engines in LTO by watching this video from Mivec Man Challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To help make your application for change in vehicle body design as painless as possible, we rounded up the most common questions and answers related to it.

1. Can I apply for the change in engine from any LTO branch office?

Yes. You may swap engines and have it registered at any LTO branch, provided that they offer the service. 

2. Is there a difference when filing for applications for change of engine between private and for hire vehicles?

Yes. There are differences in documentary requirements, but the procedures remain the same. The restrictions remain the same as well, in the sense that it is allowed so long as it doesn’t cause change in vehicle classification.

3. How much does it cost to get an engine swap done in the Philippines?

The price may vary depending on the type of engine—be it brand new, used, or donated from an old car—you require. There are other factors, including engine type, power, condition, fuel, and transmission that may cause a difference in the price for swapping engines.

4. Is LTO imposing a fee for changing the engine of my car?

Yes. The LTO collects a P100.00 charge for changing the engine of your car.

Summary

Engine swapping may not seem like a common practice, but if you are looking for cheaper alternatives to buying a car while looking to extend the lifespan of your car, then engine swapping is the best way to do so. Good thing, changing car engines is allowed by the LTO, and at a minimal price too. However, do note that there might be other LTO fees and a hefty price for the engine swap to worry about. 

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