Stiffer penalties for drunk, drugged drivers pushed

MANILA, Philippines — A party list lawmaker wants harsher penalties for persons who drive while drunk or drugged and cause harm, even death, to other motorists or pedestrians.

In filing House Bill No. 11187, Anakalusugan Rep. Ray Reyes seeks to amend provisions of Republic Act No. 10586, or the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013, and even change its name to the “Anti-Impaired Driving Act.”

This would raise the minimum jail time for drunk or drugged drivers who cause physical injuries from three to 12 months and impose fines of up to P1 million for those who commit homicide.

READ: Driving under the influence

Violators also face a 24-month suspension of their drivers’ licenses with a succeeding offense meriting perpetual revocation. HB 11187 likewise seeks to amend Section 9 of RA 10586 and require the Land Transportation Office and Philippine National Police to acquire and maintain an “adequate” number of breath analyzers and drug-testing kits. — Jeannette I. Andrade