Manila: Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez announced on Wednesday that the validity of registration for new vehicles and motorcycles will be extended from three to five years. This move, approved by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., aims to curb corruption within the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and provide added convenience for vehicle owners.

According to Philippines News Agency, Lopez explained that the extension aligns with the extended warranties often provided by car dealerships, emphasizing the DOTr's commitment to public convenience. The change is expected to reduce long queues at the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and address issues related to fixers and corruption within the department.

Lopez further noted that the policy would address the common problem of vehicle owners failing to renew their registration after the third year. He highlighted that vehicles become less reliable as they age due to depreciation and wear and tear, necessitating renewals starting the sixth year and annually thereafter. This process ensures that the LTO can perform comprehensive roadworthiness checks before allowing vehicles back on the road.

Additionally, Lopez urged vehicle dealerships, notably the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI), to continue offering free vehicle registration to their customers. He mentioned that a significant percentage of car dealers already provide this service as an incentive and appealed to CAMPI to maintain this practice to help consumers save money.

The DOTr and the LTO are preparing to issue a Department Order and Memorandum Circular to implement the new five-year registration validity, which will officially take effect in February.