DTI: Registering helmets is a simple process

With the Helmet Law taking effect next month, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) noted a decline in the number of motorcycle riders seeking Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) or Philippine Standard (PS) stickers.

“In the past we had an average of 600 people but yesterday (Thursday) there were only about 450 people who came,” said Zaide Bation, DTI division chief for consumer welfare and business regulation.

Contrary to what other people think, Bation said the processing for ICC or PS stickers is easy and will only take 30 minutes.

Bring a photocopy of one valid ID with picture and present it to the DTI office.

Applicants will fill up a form providing information like name, address, contact number, brand of the helmet, date the helmet was acquired and the name of the store where the helmet was bought.

After filling the form, they should get a priority number and wait for their number to be called.

“Once called, their pictures will be taken with the helmet which will then be evaluated if it passes requirements,” Bation said.

If the helmet doesn’t pass inspection, DTI will return it to the motorist and advise him to return with another helmet that complies with safety requirements.

Upon passing inspection, the DTI will process the application for P100 and and another P1.25 for the sticker.

Motorists are advised to keep the receipt since Land Transportation Office (LTO) personnel may check the receipt and helmet anytime.

“This is our way of knowing more about the helmet and determine if it passes the safety standard requirements,” Bation said.

Based on the latest list, DTI noted 53 helmet brands that have passed the minimum safety and quality requirements stipulated in the Motorcycle Helmet Act.

Last Wednesday, LTO Regional Director Raul Aguilos said they will start enforcing the Motorcycle Helmet Act next month despite the announcements by Cebu City Hall and the Lapu-Lapu City government that they won’t support it.

Aguilos said they won’t start penalizing motorists immediately.

Those with the proper full-face helmet have until December 31 to secure an ICC or PS sticker from the DTI.