Senator JV Ejercito has called for the suspension of Republic Act No. 10913 a.k.a. the Anti-Distracted Driving Act due to its confusing implementing rules and regulations (IRR).
According to Ejercito, the new law should be postponed until the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Land Transportation Office (LTO) irons out the confusing aspects of its IRR.
Looks like their officials [DOTr] did not understand the essence of the Anti-Distracted Driving Act. They have made matters complicated, when it is basically just about banning the use of cellphones while driving," said Senator Ejercito.
The Anti-Distracted Driving Act, which was implemented last May 18, 2017, bans the use of mobile phones and other electronic devices while driving, even when stopped during a red light. This includes actions such as texting, making calls, watching videos, surfing the net, and playing games.
The new law has a few exceptions though. It doesn’t consider the use of electronic devices as distracted driving if it’s done using the aid of hands-free functions (such as speaker-phone or Bluetooth earpiece).
In addition, navigational apps aren’t prohibited as long as it doesn’t obstruct the driver’s line-of-sight and motorists are advised to set their destination before driving. However, the various interpretations of the driver’s line-of-sight drew confusion.
"We rarely hear of road accidents that result from the use of navigational apps. Definitely, texting, and tinkering with a mobile phone while driving is a no-no. But when it is used as a navigational aid and it is properly placed, it is okay," he added.
Sen. Ejercito also said that the DOTr must clearly define the driver’s line-of-sight and where electronic devices should be placed to avoid confusion.
Latest News
-
Meet the OMODA 7 this April as it debuts worldwide! / News
The launch of OMODA’s newest model, the OMODA 7, follows its first global success with the OMODA 5.
-
DOTr, MMDA, and DILG assemble a task force to address “colorum” vehicles / News
The DOTr, MMDA, and DILG formed a joint task force to address the worsening rise of “colorum” vehicles in Metro Manila.
-
Is the Chevrolet Trailblazer’s latest facelift worth a Philippine passport? / News
The latest version of the Chevrolet Trailblazer has been revealed in Brazil, raising questions about whether this model will be available in the Philippines.
Popular Articles
-
Cheapest cars under P700,000 in the Philippines
Aug 25, 2023
-
First car or next car, the Ford EcoSport is a tough package to beat
Jun 18, 2021
-
Car Maintenance checklist and guide – here’s everything you need to know
Earl Lee · Jan 12, 2021
-
Most fuel efficient family cars in the Philippines
Bryan Aaron Rivera · Nov 27, 2020
-
2021 Geely Okavango — Everything you need to know
Joey Deriquito · Nov 19, 2020
-
Family cars in the Philippines with the biggest trunks
Sep 20, 2023
-
Head to head: Toyota Rush vs. Suzuki XL7
Joey Deriquito · Oct 28, 2020
-
Why oil changes are important for your car
Earl Lee · Nov 10, 2020
-
2021 Kia Stonic — What you need to know about it
Joey Deriquito · Oct 16, 2020
-
Top 7 tips for buying a used car in the Philippines
Joey Deriquito · Nov 26, 2020