Metro Manila—-The Department of Transportation (DOTr) recently announced the revisions on the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Anti-Distracted Driving Act (ADDA), and underscored the noble purpose of the law, which is to ensure the safety of drivers, their passengers, and pedestrians.
During a press conference held yesterday in LTO, DOTr Assistant Secretary for Legal Affairs Atty. Leah M. Quiambao clarified that the ADDA only prohibits the holding and using of mobile communications and electronic entertainment and computing device while driving, or even if the vehicle is temporarily stopped at a traffic light or an intersection.
“The law prohibits drivers from holding and using their phones while driving. However, using the hands-free function of these devices is allowed,” she said.
Asec. Quiambao likewise emphasized that dashboard cameras (dashcams) are not covered by the ADDA, but are encouraged to be placed behind the rearview mirror for safety purposes.
The revised IRR also includes the definition of the “line of sight” which allows the mounting of the cellphones and navigational devices within a “safe zone”, or not more than four (4) inches from the dashboard. This means that such devices are allowed to be mounted below, at the same level, or on top of the dashboard, and even on the windshield, as long as the highest point of the device is within the safe zone.
Prior to revising the IRR, the DOTr-LTO has conducted several consultations with concerned stakeholders including Senator Joseph Victor (JV) Ejercito, the office of Senator Vicente "Tito" Sotto III, the World Health Organization (WHO), the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines (CAMPI), Automobile Association of the Philippines (AAP), Philippine Global Road Safety Partnership (PGRSP), ImagineLaw, UBER Philippines, Grab Philippines, Department of Health (DOH), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Education, PNP-Highway Patrol Group (HPG), Philippine Information Agency, as well as members of the media.
The revised ADDA IRR is targeted to be sent for publication within the week, and will take effect 15 days after the actual publication.
