40-year-old cars get LTO exemptions under newly-signed Vintage Vehicle Regulation Act

MANILA: The Land Transportation Office (LTO) recently signed the Implementing Rules and Regulations of RA 11698, also known as the Vintage Vehicle Law (VVL), a release announced. 

Vintage car enthusiasts, industry stakeholders, and various government agencies gathered at the historic Presidential Car Museum at the Quezon City Memorial Circle during the signing. 

With the IRR completed and published, the law, which was passed last April 2022, will officially be implemented on April 17. Under the regulation, land vehicles 40 years and older, based on its manufacturing date, are recognized as “vintage vehicles.” This sub-classification is entitled to certain exemptions in LTO registration requirements such as emissions tests, seatbelt requirements, but are also subject to strict use conditions.

Other restrictions on the usage of vintage automobiles include driving them exclusively during daylight hours, banning their use as utility vehicles, and severely limiting commercial use to events or movie pictures.

“Vintage vehicles carry the history and aspirations of people and nations,” noted Northern Samar First District Rep. Paul Ruiz Daza, the principal author and sponsor of the law. “Through RA 11698, we can preserve a part of our history as a nation. Vintage cars represent a part of who we are,” he continued.

Apart from the sentimental and nostalgic spirit of the VVL, it also has some practical features. By recognizing Vintage Vehicles as a sub-classification, it allows for certain fiscal and tax incentives in the importation of vintage parts, and the export of finished restored vehicles.

“One of the key objectives of this bill is to revitalize the local car restoration industry,” Daza pointed out. He went on to discuss how "optimizing barriers-to-entry" can attract more investors to the auto restoration market. He went on to say that this prospective increase might present business prospects for nearby mechanics, metalworkers, artisans, upholsterers, painters, laborers, and shop owners. Daza also wishes for greater recognition of Filipino skills in the international restoration sector.

Other Senatorial co-authors present were Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian and Sen. Francis Tolentino. Meanwhile, Congressmen Eric Pineda, Virgilio “VG” Lacson, Jesus “Bong” Suntay, Mike Dy, and Jose “GP” Padiernos; all Congressional co-authors, were also in attendance.

Photos from Ben V. Briones/Philippine News Agency, Bentley, File

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