THE government has finally caved in to public clamor for the suspension of transportation measures seen to add up to what is already a tough time in view of the economic hardships triggered by the global pandemic.
In a press briefing, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque confirmed that President Rodrigo Duterte has indeed suspended the implementation of two controversial requirements being imposed by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) – the Motor Vehicle Inspection System (MVIS) and the Child Safety in Motor Vehicles Act.
According to Roque, the President has ordered executive agencies to defer the full implementation of the Child Safety in Motor Vehicles Act, the law requiring children aged 12 and below to be in car seats when riding a vehicle.
“The President has decided. The implementation of child car seats has been deferred,” the Palace spokesperson averred.
The child car seat law, otherwise referred to as Republic Act No. 11229, which took effect February 2, requires children aged 12 or below who are below 4 feet and 11 inches must be in a restraint system appropriate for their weight, height, and age while riding a vehicle.
As for the MVIS proposal by the Department of Transportation, it has also been reduced to just an option for motorists. Under the system, motorists are required to shell out a substantial amount to cover the fees imposed by LTO-preferred private motor vehicle inspection firms.
“This means no new fee, no additional fees for registering cars,” said Roque.
Roque attributed the decision of the President “in recognition of the financial difficulties experienced by many Filipino families due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the outbreak of African swine fever.”