Filing a petition for the adoption of a trade name entails submitting a formal request to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to authorize the integration of a specific business or trade name into the operations of a CPC holder within the public utility sector. This process involves completing the required application form, providing supporting documentation, and adhering to established guidelines and regulations set forth by the LTFRB. The purpose of filing such a petition is to formalize the use of a trade name, enhancing the identification and branding of public utility operators while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
Filing an LTFRB petition for the adoption of a trade name helps public utility vehicle (PUV) operators by providing them with a formalized identity within the transportation sector. By adopting a trade name, PUVS can enhance their visibility and recognition among passengers and stakeholders. This process also fosters transparency and accountability within the industry, as operators are required to comply with regulatory standards and guidelines set by the LTFRB. Additionally, having a registered trade name can facilitate business transactions and promote professionalism among PUV operators.
What is a Trade Name
A trade name is a name used by a business or entity to identify itself to the public. It is also known as a business name or trading name. Unlike a company’s legal name, which is registered with government authorities, a trade name is often used for branding and marketing purposes. It can be a company’s official name or a name under which it conducts its business activities. Additionally, a trade name can include individual names, surnames, firm names, or other identifiers used by businesses to distinguish themselves in the marketplace.
A trade name formalizes the use of such a name, enhancing the identification and branding of public utility operators while ensuring regulatory compliance. Adopting a trade name benefits PUV operators as it establishes formal identity in the transportation sector, increases visibility among passengers and stakeholders, and fosters transparency and accountability through adherence to LTFRB regulations.
Adopting a Trade Name in LTFRB
Adopting a trade name in LTFRB refers to the process where holders of Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) within the public land transport sector seek authorization to formally integrate a specific business or trade name into their operations, as mandated by the LTFRB. This adoption process typically involves submitting a petition or application to the LTFRB, accompanied by the necessary documentation and compliance with established guidelines and regulations. The adoption of a trade name facilitates the identification and branding of public utility operators, promoting transparency and accountability within the transportation industry.
Who Can File A Petition for Adoption of Trade Name
Only public utility vehicle operators who are holders of valid CPC are allowed to go through the LTFRB to seek authorization to adopt a trade name at the LTFRB Office closest to them.
Requirements
To initiate the process of seeking authorization to adopt a trade name, CPC holders are required to prepare and attach the following documents for the Petition for Adoption of Trade Name:
- Four (4) original copies of the Sworn Petition for Application of Trade Name Form from the LTFRB Public Assistance and Complaints Desk (PACD) or via the official LTFRB website.
- One (1) Original copy for presentation and one (1) Photocopy of any valid government-issued ID Card
- One (1) Original copy for presentation and one (1) Photocopy of Valid Certificate of Business Name
- Golden Yellow Folder
For Authorized Representatives (Individual Operators)
Personal appearance of the petitioner is required. However, if not possible for petitioner to be physically present, authorized representative is allowed upon presentation of:
- One (1) Original copy for presentation and one (1) Photocopy of Duly notarized Special Power of Attorney (SPA)
- One (1) Original copy for presentation and one (1) Photocopy of Valid Government-Issued ID of the applicant and authorized representative
For Cooperatives
- One (1) Original copy for presentation and one (1) Photocopy of Board Resolution/ Secretary’s Certificate authorizing the Adoption of Trade Name of the unit/s and designating the authorized representative/s to file Petition
- One (1) Original copy for presentation and one (1) Photocopy of valid government-issued ID of the authorized representative
For Corporations, and Partnerships
- One (1) Original copy for presentation and one (1) Photocopy of Board Resolution/ Secretary’s Certificate authorizing the Adoption of Trade Name of the unit/s and designating the authorized representative/s to file Petition
- One (1) Original copy for presentation and one (1) Photocopy of valid government-issued ID of the authorized representative
Procedures for Filing Petition Adopt Trade Name
For a detailed guide on how to file a request to adopt the trade name of the unit/s at the LTFRB, here are the steps to follow:
Step 1. Initiate the Process by Visiting the LTFRB Office
Start by visiting the nearest LTFRB office to obtain the Petition for Application of Trade Name Form and the accompanying checklist of requirements from the LTFRB PACD.
Step 2. Submission of Application
Submit the completed request form along with all required supporting documents to the Technical Division for a thorough verification and completeness assessment.
Step 3. Assessment of Fees and Payment
Await the completion of fee assessment and issuance of the payment order slip (POS). Proceed to make the necessary payments at the designated cashier counter.
Step 4. Submission and Evaluation
Deliver the completed request form along with the official receipt of payment to the ISMD Help Desk for further evaluation by the Technical Division.
Step 5. Await Evaluation Outcome
Allow LTFRB personnel sufficient time to finalize the evaluation process and update the information within the Franchise Processing System (FPS).
Step 6. Claim the Petition Order
Upon receiving approval, visit the LTFRB office on the designated date to claim the Board’s order pertaining to your petition at the ISMD Releasing Unit, located on the 2nd Floor.
By adhering to the outlined procedures and fulfilling the necessary requirements, all CPC holders can efficiently seek authorization to adopt the trade name of the unit/s at the LTFRB.
Fees
The request to adopt trade names at the LTFRB is not free. Just like when you file for a petition for name change or change of engine, this request requires you to be ready to pay the associated fees which include the following:
- Filing Fee: PHP 250.00
- Legal Research Fee: PHP 10.00
- Franchise Verification Fee: PHP 40.00
Processing Time
The processing time is estimated to be at least eighteen (18) days, though it may vary depending on the completeness of the requirements submitted. Having incomplete requirements may also cause delays in approval of your request for adoption of trade name.
Summary
Filing an LTFRB petition for a trade name involves submitting a formal request to integrate a specific business name into the operations of a public utility vehicle. This process helps operators establish their identity, comply with regulations, and improve transparency, ultimately benefiting both operators and passengers.