In a move set to benefit thousands of Filipino riders, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) has officially abolished the registration fee for custom-made motorcycle accessories used for storage.
Financial Relief for Riders
LTO Chief Markus V. Lacanilao signed a memorandum ordering the removal of the ₱100 registration fee previously required for each custom-made top box or saddle bag attached to a motorcycle. The directive took effect on January 5, 2026.
Chief Lacanilao emphasized that this decision is a significant form of assistance for riders, particularly those who use their motorcycles for work and daily livelihood. "This is a big help to riders who rely on their motorcycles for their livelihood, as it removes an additional expense," he stated. The policy aligns with the LTO's broader 7-Point Policy Agenda, which aims to eliminate unnecessary fees and reduce the financial load on citizens.
Registration Still Mandatory for Safety
While the fee is now gone, the LTO was clear that the registration requirement itself is not being scrapped. Motorcycle owners must still have their custom-made top boxes and saddle bags registered and assessed by the agency.
Lacanilao explained that this step remains crucial for the LTO to fulfill its duty of evaluating vehicle roadworthiness and safety. The agency needs to ensure that any added equipment complies with its standards and does not compromise the safety of the rider or the public.
New Proof of Registration
To facilitate the new process, the LTO will no longer issue an official receipt as proof of registration for these accessories. Instead, it will provide a certification in a format prescribed by its Central Office. This document will serve as the official proof that the accessory has been registered and inspected.
The LTO chief also declared that all previous orders, memoranda, and regulations conflicting with this new directive are now repealed, amended, or modified accordingly.
Call for Swift Implementation
To ensure a smooth transition, Lacanilao has directed all regional directors, law enforcement officers, and inspection center heads to implement the new policy immediately. He urged them to assist motorcycle owners in completing the necessary registration process without any unnecessary delay.
This policy shift is expected to be widely welcomed by the riding community across the Philippines, offering tangible cost savings while maintaining the government's focus on road safety standards.
