LTO okays rules for vintage cars

MANILA, Philippines — Owners or collectors of vintage cars may soon be able to drive their prized vehicles around — provided they’re “roadworthy.”

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has endorsed the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the Vintage Vehicle Regulation Act, which allows the use of vintage vehicles that pass the government’s safety and roadworthiness guidelines.

On Sunday, the LTO chief, Assistant Secretary Jose Arturo Tugade, said the IRR would not only ensure the preservation of the cultural and historical value of old-fashioned vehicles but set standards on how they should be kept, restored, registered and used.

Under Republic Act No. 11698, a vintage vehicle refers to any motor vehicle that is at least 40 years old from the date of manufacture, whose chassis, engine, steering assembly and suspension assembly are either original or authentic, and whose body has not been altered in general appearance, subject to some exceptions.

Random inspections

Such vehicles may be powered by an internal combustion engine, electricity, a combination of both or other means.

Based on the IRR, effective April 17, the LTO may enforce minimum standards in the inspection of vintage cars that would also serve as the guidelines for owners and repair shops, including on allowed modifications.

“The LTO and its deputized agents… are authorized to conduct random roadside inspection of vintage vehicles on public roads and highways in the interest of public safety and responsible ownership,” the agency said in a statement.

Industry growth

The IRR also allows owners to register vintage vehicles with the LTO, including even those with lost papers and restamp identification serial numbers, provided that they submit documentary requirements and the motor vehicle inspection report.

According to Northern Samar Rep. Paul Daza, the law’s principal author, its implementation will help grow the vintage car restoration industry in the Philippines.

To support that industry, the LTO will develop a database of authorized and licensed companies and shops that repair, restore or manufacture spare and replacement parts of vintage vehicles.