Child car seat is now a requirement, starts February 2

Photo courtesy of Freepik, shot by SenivPetro

 

by Jane Kingsu-Cheng, Manila Bulletin

In preparation for the implementation of the Republic Act 11229 or Child Safety in Motor Vehicles Act in the Philippines, Buckle Up Kids PH hosted a virtual press conference last January 29, Friday. This is an effort to brief the parents on the law that is to be rolled out this February 2.

The virtual show consisted of guests such as Land Transformation Office (LTO) deputy director for law enforcement Roberto Valera, Engr. Louis Jhay Kimverly Palmes who is a Trade and Industry Development specialist from the Bureau of Philippine Standards of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and Atty. Daphne Marcelo, a Policy Associate of ImagineLaw who served as the host and moderator. Regine Tolentino was also present as the road safety advocate, along with Atty. Mark Steven Pastor who is the assistant secretary for road transport and infrastructure of (DOTr), and Chiqui Liquicia from VeraFiles.

Children under 12 years old (and have a height of 4’11” below) fall under the Child Safety in Motor Vehicles Act, which means that they should be buckled up in a child car seat and are not allowed to sit in front. They should always be accompanied by one of their parents or adult guardian.

Valera also announced that there will be an “initial phase” for motorists to get used to and complete all the requirements. “The enforcement is not just about apprehension. It involves information dissemination and warnings,” says Valera, adding that they will also be releasing printed materials about the law for further understanding and comprehension of this newly implemented law. “We will be on warning mode as well as information dissemination.”

The show also reminded the parents of the fines involved. Ranging from P1,000 to P5,000, and even suspension of driver’s license for one year if caught thrice or more. Manufacturers, distributors, importers, retailers, and even sellers who sell substandard child seats—from P50,000 to P100,000.

LTO will also be requiring motorists to get LTO clearance for the child seats that they will be installing in their cars. This is to ensure that car seats are installed properly.