On March 12, 2019 Malacañang Palace released a copy of Republic Act 11229 or the Child Safety in Motor Vehicles Act. The new mandatory car seat law in the Philippines was signed by President Rodrigo Duterte last February 22, 2019.
Car seat law in the Philippines
The mandatory car seat law in the Philippines aims to protect children from vehicle-related accidents, injuries, and deaths.
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Here’s what you need to know about child car seat law in the Philippines:
- A child 12 years and below is not allowed to sit in the front passenger seat of a vehicle when the engine is running.
- A child can sit in the front passenger seat only if the child meets the minimum height requirement of 150 centimeters or 4’11.” The child is also required to wear a seat belt.
- The driver of the vehicle is responsible for making sure that child passengers are secured in a restraint system (car seat) while the engine is running.
- A child should not be left alone in a child restraint system or car seat inside any motor vehicle.
- The child restraint system (car seat) should be appropriate to the child’s age, height, and weight.
- A child is not required to be in a child restraint system (car seat) during medical emergencies or if the child has medical conditions that would put the child in more danger if placed in a child restraint system (car seat).
- Breaking the car seat law in the Philippines will result to fines: P1,000 for the first offense, P2,000 for the second offense, P5,000 and suspension of license for up to one year for the third offense.
- Manufacturers, distributors, and sellers of child restraint systems and car seats should comply with standards set by the United Nations.
- The driver of the vehicle should make sure that the child restraint system or car seat in place has the Philippine Standard (PS) mark.
- Using a substandard child restraint system or car seat will result to penalties.
- Tampering with PS mark or Import Clearance Certificate (ICC) sticker will also be punished with hefty fines—P50,000 up to P100,000 for every tampered car seat.
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UPDATED: 2023 Single ticketing system
If your youngster is still not buckled up in a car seat when you leave, you really ought to think about doing so. After all, in the event of an automobile accident, this choice may literally mean the difference between life and death.
If you are caught bringing your kids out without utilizing a child restraint system on multiple occasions, you could be fined P5,000 under the single ticketing system.
According to the new system, a driver faces fines of P1,000, P2,000, and P5,000 for the first, second, and third (plus subsequent) violations, respectively, for failing to buckle up their child.
Importance of adhering to car seat law in the Philippines: A reminder for parents
Recognizing the importance of adhering to car seat laws for children in the Philippines is a cornerstone in ensuring their well-being on the road. Beyond being a legal requirement, these regulations serve as a vital shield against the unpredictable nature of accidents, providing a layer of protection that is particularly indispensable for our precious little passengers. Car seats are meticulously designed to safeguard children in the event of a collision or sudden stops, significantly reducing the risk of injury.
In a country where road safety is a shared responsibility, complying with car seat laws showcases a commitment to fostering a culture of protection and responsibility.
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These laws underscore the understanding that, as parents and caregivers, our duty extends beyond simply getting from point A to B – it is about safeguarding the future of our children. Embracing this practice not only aligns with legal requirements but also resonates with the broader ethos of responsible parenting.
Moreover, adherence to car seat laws contributes to a collective effort in reducing preventable accidents involving children. By prioritizing their safety through proper restraint systems, we actively participate in building a safer road environment for all. As we navigate the bustling streets of the Philippines, let’s make a conscious choice to buckle up our little ones in car seats, not just as a legal obligation but as a heartfelt commitment to their safety and a shared vision of a secure and protected future on our roads.
Updates by Jobelle Macayan