“Ped Xing” means “Pedestrian Crossing,” a vital road sign indicating areas designated for pedestrians to safely cross streets. This abbreviated signage is used to convey this important information concisely to motorists, promoting awareness and caution around pedestrian pathways.
Understanding the meaning of “Ped Xing” is crucial for everyone on the road. It signifies the need for drivers to slow down, watch for pedestrians, and yield when necessary. Respecting “Ped Xing” signs is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of pedestrians and maintaining orderly traffic flow. Therefore, everyone needs to recognize and adhere to these road markings to foster a safer environment for all road users.
Have you ever spotted those road signs labeled “Ped Xing” and wondered what they mean? Despite the enigmatic abbreviation, “Ped Xing” isn’t paying homage to the esteemed Pedro Xing-Hua as Manila Mayor Lito Atienza once said. In reality, it’s simply a condensed form of “Pedestrian Crossing.”
The use of “Ped Xing” signs in the Philippines dates back to around 2003, when they were introduced as part of the Lighted Street Sign and Multi-Traffic Signals Project in Metro Manila. These signs were implemented to enhance road safety and provide clearer guidance for motorists regarding pedestrian crossings.
Over the years, “Ped Xing” signs have become commonplace across various locations in the country, indicating areas where pedestrians have the right of way. Their widespread adoption underscores the importance placed on pedestrian safety and traffic management, especially in urban areas like Metro Manila. The presence of these signs reflects ongoing efforts to improve road infrastructure and prioritize pedestrian-friendly measures in the country’s transportation systems.
What’s the Purpose of a “Ped Xing” Sign?
When you encounter a “Ped Xing” sign while driving, it’s a crucial alert that you’re approaching an area designated for pedestrians to cross the road safely. These signs are typically situated in places without intersections but where foot traffic is frequent, such as near schools, hospitals, or other significant establishments. They also appear at intersections lacking dedicated pedestrian lanes or overpasses.
Why the Abbreviation?
The reason behind shortening “Pedestrian Crossing” to “Ped Xing” instead of the tagalog version “Tawiran” lies in practicality. Traffic signs adhere to standardized sizes, and the full phrase simply doesn’t fit within those constraints. This abbreviation ensures that essential road information is conveyed effectively and universally.
The Importance of “Ped Xing” Signs
It’s crucial for drivers to heed “Ped Xing” signs by slowing down and being vigilant. Pedestrians, as fellow road users, deserve our respect and consideration. By recognizing and respecting these designated crossing points and the pedestrians’ right of way, we contribute to overall road safety.
Legal Considerations for Drivers
In the Philippines, as in many countries, pedestrians are afforded special protection in road accidents. However, proposed legislation like House Bill No. 1987 (Philippine Responsible Driving and Accountability Act) aims to provide balance by addressing reckless behavior among all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists. Such measures seek to promote accountability and safety on the roads.
Pedestrian Safety Statistics
The importance of road safety, particularly for pedestrians, cannot be overstated. Statistics from the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) highlight the alarming frequency of pedestrian-related accidents. Understanding and adhering to traffic regulations, especially around pedestrian crossings, can significantly reduce such incidents.
Ano nga ba ang Ped-Xing in Tagalog?
The MMDA has posted an update explaining the meaning in Filipino Tagalog:
Ang Ped Xing ay pinaikling salita na PEDESTRIAN CROSSING na ang ibig sabihin ay pagbibigay BABALA sa paparating na motorista na may tawiran ng mga tao.
Kung kaya’t hinihikayat ang mga motorista na mag-ingat at magbigay daan sa tawiran ng mga tao upang maiwasan ang aksidente sa kalsada.
Video: Pedestrian Crossing (Ped Xing) in the Philippines
To learn more about what Ped Xing is as well as its importance to the road users in the country, you may check out this video from Eman Escalona Jr.:
Summary
Now that you’re acquainted with the meaning and significance of “Ped Xing,” remember to stay alert and respect pedestrian crossings during your travels. By doing so, we contribute to a safer and more harmonious road environment for everyone. So next time you see a “Ped Xing” sign, slow down, yield to pedestrians, and ensure safe passage for all road users.
The Land Transportation Office (LTO) and its agencies in different parts of the country also issue duplicate plate numbers in cases of loss or theft. Before they do, they require several documentary requirements along with an Affidavit of Loss to prove that the number plate is indeed lost and irretrievable despite the car owner’s best efforts.
Number plates are required fixtures that serve as a special identification of the motor vehicle (MV) unit meant to help the government trace and identify the vehicle owner easily. It is illegal to drive a vehicle without one in the Philippines, so it is the responsibility of the MV owners to ensure that their vehicle’s plate numbers are always attached and have the necessary stickers. In cases when the number plate is lost, however, the LTO gives out duplicate plates as replacement for lost, stolen, damaged, or mutilated number plates. Note that this is an officially issued replacement by the LTO, and is different from temporary license plates, and it requires the submission of an Affidavit of Loss Plate.
Affidavit of Loss for Lost Plate Number Motorcycle and Motor Vehicles
An Affidavit of Loss is a legal document declaring the loss of something in an official document notarized by a licensed lawyer. In the case of requests for Duplicate plates, the Affidavit of Loss Plate serves as the MV owner’s oath or sworn statement that the plate number is lost and cannot be found despite the owners best efforts, so the owner and the agency can deem it lost for good.
Because of the importance of the license plates to both the LTO and the car owner and the inevitable case of loss or theft of plate numbers, the agency has made it possible to request for duplicate plates. Requesting for replacement plates is easy though it does come with several documentary requirements, including an Affidavit of Loss that details how the plate number was lost and all the effort exerted to find it.
Benefits of Getting an Affidavit of Loss Plates
Securing an Affidavit of Loss in order to fulfill the requirements to apply for a duplicate plate in the Philippines can only mean getting to enjoy the same exact benefits of having a legitimate plate number prior to its loss or damage.
These benefits include:
Having the option to drive the car on public roads.
Having a legal proof that the car is registered with the government and is roadworthy.
It is the ticket out of many legal problems, which can result from driving a car without license plates.
You can sell your MV or MC easily as it comes with complete papers.
You won’t be at a disadvantage in case a dispute arise due to accident or traffic collision
Who Can Get a Notarized Affidavit of Loss for Duplicate or Replacement Plate from LTO
Securing an Affidavit of Loss in order to acquire a duplicate or replacement plate number can be done by anybody who owns an LTO-registered motor vehicle or motorcycle in the Philippines, in cases of loss, theft, or damage to the original.
Content of an Affidavit of Loss Plate
Though the Affidavit of Loss can be used under different circumstances related to losses of all kinds, even when the lost item is an LTO requirement, the affidavit itself is unchanging in its content, and must always contain the following information:
Title of the document
Personal information
Full name
Statement that affiant is of legal age
Civil status
Citizenship
Residence address
Residence Certificate Number
A narration of the circumstances of the loss, which includes
A description of the item or document lost
A description of how it got lost
The effort exerted to find it; and
Your request for a replacement of the item or document lost.
The signature of the affiant or the person executing/signing the document.
The jurat or the oath or affirmation before the notary public that you have personally executed the document in the notary’s presence.
For Affidavit of Loss to be used at the LTO in the application for a duplicate plate, the licensee must also satisfy other documentary requirements for processing duplicate plates along with other pertinent personal information.
Requirements for Securing a Notarized Affidavit of Loss Plate
Securing a Notarized Affidavit of Loss, regardless of the lost item or document, always comes with the same requirements. These requirements include a community residence certificate, a proof of identity, and money for the notarial fees.
To apply for duplicate plates, you will also need the following:
For for-hire vehicles only: LTFRB certification indicating that claimed lost plate number has not been surrendered
For company vehicles: DTI or company secretary’s certificate.
Procedures for Securing a Notarized Affidavit of Loss for LTO Duplicate Plate
If, somehow, you find yourself in need of a notarized Affidavit of Loss to secure a duplicate or replacement plate for your motor vehicle or motorcycle, then you may refer to this guide on how to secure an LTO Affidavit of Loss.
Once you have an affidavit prepared, then you may check out this guide on the procedures to process a replacement for a lost plate at the LTO.
Fees for Securing a Notarized Affidavit of Loss for LTO Duplicate Plates
When it comes to the fees associated with the Affidavit of Loss for duplicate plates, you have two options: First, to come prepared with an affidavit and pay for notarial services only. The price ranges from P100.00 to P400.00. The second option is for if you can’t prepare the affidavit. If you can’t, you may ask the notary public to prepare it for you but you may need to prepare to shell out around P500.00 to P800.00 depending on the notary public that you are visiting. If you qualify as an indigent, then the Public Attorney’s Office gives out a notarized Affidavit of Loss for free.
Sample Affidavit of Loss Plate Template
If you have no idea about how an Affidavit of Loss looks like on paper, this sample Affidavit of Loss Plate can help you write one without starting from scratch.
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES )
CITY OF BAGUIO ) S.S.
AFFIDAVIT OF LOSS PLATE
I, _________________, of legal age, single, Filipino, and a resident of ________________________________, after having duly sworn to in accordance with law, hereby depose and say that:
1. I am the authorized driver of a vehicle which is particularly described as follows:
Model: Hyundai Grand Starex
Plate number: AEY 577
2. On or about 9:00 pm of December 9, 2022, I drove the said vehicle along Mapanueve Lake, Zambales;
3. When I arrived home at my aforementioned residence in Baguio City, I noticed that one of the plates of the said vehicle is missing;
4. I lost no time in diligently trying to locate the said plate but all efforts exerted proved futile and to no avail, and that the same is considered lost or stolen and beyond recovery;
5. I did not yet report the loss to the authorities, as I was not sure as to the circumstances of the loss of the said plate, but would report the same, if the need arises;
6. That the aforementioned plate is not confiscated by any duly constituted authority nor it was used for any illicit purposes whatsoever;
As such, I am executing this Affidavit of Loss to attest to the truth of the foregoing and for whatever legal purposes that this may serve, and specifically to seek a replacement copy thereof.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this ___________________ in Baguio City, Philippines.
____________________ Affiant. SSS ID No. _____________
SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN TO before me this ___________________ in _________________, Philippines, affiant exhibiting to me his/her competent evidence of identity by way of __________________ issued at ______________ on __________________.
Doc. No. _____;
Page No. _____;
Book No. _____;
Series of 2018.
Important Tips and Reminders
For your reference, here are some important reminders you might want to take note of:
To save money when getting a notarized Affidavit of Loss for duplicate plates, you might want to have an affidavit document prepared before heading for the notary public’s office.
All Affidavit of Loss includes a jurat or an oath or affirmation before the notary public that you have personally executed the document in the notary’s presence.
In case of lost plates, getting the Affidavit of Loss Plate is perhaps the easiest part.
Apart from getting an Affidavit Of Loss Plate and PNP-HPG clearance, there are other processes involved before you can get a replacement for your vehicle plate.
The affidavit of loss plate is a document which bears the MV owner’s name, address, and other demographics, as well as the vehicle details such as its make and engine number.
The loss of your plate number is not something that should be ignored because of the penalties that come with driving a vehicle without a plate or one with an improvised plate without any authority.
Plus, failure to report that your plate number has been lost, might result in criminal charges if other people use it to commit a crime.
Video: How to File a Replacement Request for Lost or Stolen LTO Plates
Learn more about the fees, requirements, and procedures in the actual application for replacement of lost plates at the LTO. Watch this video from Tongbits TV.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To learn more about executing an Affidavit of Loss for lost LTO plates, here are some common questions and answers that might help:
1. Is an Affidavit of Loss legal and acceptable as declaration for lost plate numbers?
Yes. The Affidavit of Loss is a legal document executed under oath and notarized to attest to the truth of the loss of the MV’s license plates.
2. Will the notary public entertain my request for a notarized Affidavit of Loss for duplicate plates even if I do not have an ID?
Yes. If you satisfy any of the following conditions, the notary public may validate your Affidavit of Loss:
a. The notary public personally knows you; b. The notary public does not know you, but there is at least one credible witness personally known to the notary public who can confirm your identity; c. If you can bring two credible witnesses who have IDs, and they can confirm your identity to the notary.
3. How much does the Affidavit of Loss for duplicate plates cost in the Philippines?
Like the regular Affidavit of Loss, the fees for a notarized Affidavit of Loss Plates usually start at P100.00 and may reach up to P500.00 to P800.00, depending on the location and prestige of the notary public.
4. Is there a free Affidavit of Loss?
Yes. The Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) provides free notarial services and Affidavits of Loss to indigent persons, provided that they can show proof of indigency.
5. How can one be considered indigent?
To be considered indigent, the family income of the requesting party should not exceed P14,000.00 per month if in Metro Manila, P13,000.00 for other cities, and P12,000.00 for all other places. You may also check the Legal Office or the Councilor’s Office of your city or municipality, as they sometimes offer free notarial services to their constituents.
6. Can I make my own Affidavit of Loss?
Yes. Individuals have the option to make their own affidavit of loss. The affiant only needs to make sure that the affidavit includes all the necessary details, like their full legal name, date of birth, description of the lost or damaged asset, explanation of how it got lost, etc. Also, they must also notarize the document.
7. How long is the validity of an Affidavit of Loss Plate?
An affidavit of Loss Plate does not have an expiry date. However, it is valid only for the one particular incident in which one lost the document. Hence, individuals can only use it once.
8. Can I get an Affidavit of Loss for lost plate at the barangay hall?
Yes. You may check the barangay for free notarial services that they sometimes offer to their constituents. This means that you may be able to secure a free Affidavit of Loss from there. In case there aren’t free notarial programs available, then there’s no way to execute an Affidavit of Loss from there.
9. Is there an LTO-accredited Notary Public where I can execute my Affidavit of Loss?
No. There aren’t any LTO-accredited Notary Public anywhere in the country. Having said that, you can get and execute your Affidavit of Loss for duplicate plates anywhere in the country.
Summary
The LTO-issued plate serves as a special identification of the motor vehicle (MV) unit meant to help the government trace and identify the vehicle owner easily. Loss of such plates may cause a lot of trouble so it’s best to report it immediately. To do so, one needs to submit to the LTO an Affidavit of Loss Plate, which will also serve as the legal documentation that the plate is no longer in your possession. Doing so can help you avoid trouble, plus it gets you a duplicate license plates so you can use your car legally again.
If you drive or ride a motorcycle in the Philippines, you probably know that there exists a Dress Code for Motorcycle Riders violation under the new Single Ticketing System (STS) implemented by the Land Transportation Office (LTO).
The rule on the dress code applies not only to motorcycle drivers but also to pillion riders. Anyone who’s had to endure paying fines just to get their driver’s license back from another city for some random traffic violation knows what a pain it can be. Like any other violations, getting caught disregarding the dress code entails stiff penalties, so it’s best to be in the know if you don’t want to pay hefty LTO fees or risk suspension of your license.
The Philippines is pretty lax compared to other countries when it comes to the law regarding dress codes for motorcycle riders. It doesn’t mean, however, that no rules exist. In fact, the Motorcycle Dress Code dates back to 2008 and it is among the provisions of the LTO Administrative Order (AO) No. AHS-2008-015. In it, you will find the rules and regulations governing the use and operation of motorcycles on roads and highways.
Sure, there is no “explicit” list of specific articles of clothing and protective devices or equipment in the Dress Code, but if you need a little reminder on what it actually says as the minimum prescribed dress code when riding a motorcycle in the Philippines: Wearing a full-face helmet with proper ICC markings and closed footwear will work well to ensure safety. Though it’s best to complete the motorcycle gear with gloves and long pants, at the very least, you can complete the ensemble that will work well in the event of an accident.
Things You Need to Wear When Riding a Motorcycle
For your reference, here are some things you can’t ride a motorcycle without:
Motorcycle Helmet (required)
Not allowed: Non-certified or substandard helmets, bicycle helmets, skateboard helmets, hardhats, other substandard helmets, no helmet
Pursuant to Section 6 of Republic Act No. 10054 (RA 10054), also known as the Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009, driving without wearing the standard protective motorcycle helmet and failing to require backrider/s to wear the standard protective motorcycle helmet is punishable by law. The law requires all motorcycle riders, including drivers and back riders, to wear standard protective motorcycle helmets while driving. This law also covers both long or short drives in any type of road and highway.
What are standard helmets?
According to the same law, standard motorcycle helmets must have either a Philippine Standard (PS) mark or an Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) sticker from the Bureau of Product Standards (BPS) to ensure that these comply with safety standards. DOT and ECE markings are also often found as stickers at the back of the helmet near the base.
The common types of motorcycle helmets include:
full face (with a fixed protective chin bar and visor)
open face (with no chin bar)
modular
off-road
hybrid (ADV/enduro)
All types of motorcycle helmet are allowed as long as they meet the proper safety standards, though the full face type is recommended.
Fines and penalties
No motorcycle helmet
1st offense: P1,500
2nd offense: P3,000
3rd offense: P5,000
4th and subsequent offenses: P10,000 with confiscation of the driver’s license
Stricter fines and penalties are also imposed to those who use, sell, and distribute substandard motorcycle helmets or those helmets which do not bear the PS mark or the ICC certificate:
Use of helmet with no ICC markings
1st offense: P3,000
2nd and subsequent offenses: P5,000 (without prejudice to other penalties imposed under the Consumer Act of the Philippines)
Closed Footwear (required)
Other than the motorcycle helmets, another piece of clothing that’s mandated by law is a pair of closed shoes. This means that flip-flops, sandals, or other equivalent footwear are prohibited when riding a motorcycle—both for the driver and the passenger. This order is detailed in the administrative order issued by the Land Transportation Office (LTO), AHS-2008-15, which expressly states that wearing flip-flops, slippers, sandals, or other equivalent footwear on a motorcycle is prohibited.
Closed footwear, which generally means the entire foot should be fully covered, must include the top of the foot and the heel. And no, traditional Crocs with holes in the design and open back with strap is not allowed. Hairnets over slippers don’t count as closed footwear either. Wearing anything other than closed shoes poses significant danger in the event of a crash as bare human flesh and bone stands no chance against hundreds of pounds of steel and concrete.
Fines and penalties
1st offense: P500
2nd offense: P750
3rd offense: P1,000 plus revocation of driver’s license
Other protective gears
While it is not mandated by the law in the Philippines, extra safety gear like padded motorcycle jackets, gloves, and riding boots may be needed for those on big bikes passing the expressway. Reflective vests may also be needed if you enjoy riding at night.
The definition of “Protective devices” does not include specific penalty/violation and accompanying fine for not wearing goggles, heavy pants, heavy jackets, or leather gloves. The fines that have been detailed in the AO do not include not wearing any of these articles of clothing as being a violation.
Gloves (optional)
Riding gloves helps protect the hands of motorcycle riders. This refers to the type of gloves that can be used when riding a motorcycle. These gloves are usually made of leather, fabric, mesh or a mixture of these materials and have protective pads or armor to protect various parts of the hands. Motorcycle gloves also offer added protection, safety, comfort, and style. They help protect the hands from serious injury, offer added grip strength for better control of the handlebars, and to dampen vibrations from the road.
Jacket (optional)
Motorcyclists are advised to wear riding jackets in order to literally save their skin on the road. Motorcycle jackets also shield riders and passengers from the elements of nature while riding. A good jacket blocks out the chill, too. After all, flying at high speeds produces some serious wind.
Pants (optional)
Riding pants are also another way to protect the riders and passengers. Whether you choose to wear riding pants or leathers over your everyday clothing, the key here is protection. In any case, leather, kevlar and other synthetic materials used in pants designed specifically for motorcycle riding will protect you best in case of an accident. Some types of riding pants also have hard plastic armor at the knees and hips.
Reflective vests (optional)
Reflective vests are personal protective equipment generally designed with a combination of bright colors and reflective sections so that visibility is maximized regardless of the kind of light available. One study said that motorcycle riders are less likely to be involved in an accident or a crash when they are wearing high-visibility or fluorescent clothing. After all, it does help increase conspicuity, or obvious presence, which is particularly important when driving on the road at night.
Video: LTO Dress Code for Motorbike Riders
Check out this video clip uploaded by Philippine Assistance about the proper motorcycle dress code according to LTO standards.
Important Reminders
While Philippine laws don’t explicitly require the use of full motorcycle-approved riding gear, it’s always a good idea to do so. Making sure that you are dressed properly whenever you ride your motorcycle—no matter where it is you’re going, is also very important. This helps you get prepared in the event of a crash. After all, without protective gears, the likelihood of you walking away from the accident increases tenfold.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
For your reference, here are some common questions, and answers about it?
1. What exactly should motorcycle riders be wearing?
The Philippine law regarding the dress code for motorcycle riders does not explicitly state this, but it is common knowledge among riders and authorities alike that anyone operating or riding a motorcycle should be wearing closed shoes. Pillion riders or back riders are also mandated to wear closed shoes.
2. What kind of helmet is allowed in the Philippines?
Any legitimate motorcycle helmet—regardless if it’s full-face, modular, or open-face—is allowed for use as long as it already adheres to the safety standards set by the government. However, do note that under the Republic Act No. 10054 or the Motorycle Helmet Act of 2009, helmets must bear the Philippine Standard (PS) mark or the Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) of the Bureau of Product Standards (BPS) to ensure that they adhere to correct safety standards. Having other safety ratings such as DOT, ECE, FIM, and Snell is okay, but local legislation doesn’t really pay much attention to that. It would still be good for riders to know about them, especially for those who plan to get into more serious riding.
3. Are shorts allowed?
Yes. The Philippine law only requires riders to wear helmets and closed shoes. Specialized protective gear such as motorcycle jackets, gloves, or padded pants, also helps. The laws also do not specifically mention anything that prohibits riders from wearing shorts either.
4. Can you wear shorts while driving a motorcycle in Metro Manila?
According to the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), yes, you can still wear shorts—for now. It is not prohibited by the MMDA just yet.
5. What are the dangers of wearing shorts while riding?
While technically you can wear shorts, though it is not really advisable especially for city rides and long rides. Shorts leave your legs exposed to possible burns from the motorcycle engine and exhaust pipes and leaves you more vulnerable in case of accidents.
Summary
For your own safety, it’s best to follow the motorcycle dress code for motorcycle riders properly, regardless if you are driving or back riding. If you’re passing by major roads like EDSA and other highways in the city, for safety purposes6, the bare minimum should be pants. Since jackets can be heavy because of the heat, breathable long sleeve dri-fit shirts are also popular among riders. Anyway, the dress code is supposed to be for the safety of drivers and passengers alike to minimize injuries.
