Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade ordered the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to put the mandatory Private Motor Vehicle Inspection Centers (PMVIC) testing on hold until the issue with Geographic Areas of Responsibility (GAOR) is resolved.
Tugade also told the LTO to return to the previous registration process where motorists can choose between a PMVIC or a PETC for the required vehicle inspection.
Currently, motor vehicle owners in areas not under GAOR can undergo vehicle testing at a PETC and roadworthiness inspection at an LTO office.
Tugade said there needs to be a smoother and more efficient manner to implement the GAOR policy while taking into consideration the COVID-19 situation. He also called for unity to address issues and concerns on the road worthiness inspection process.
“Though roadworthiness is not the cure-all for road crashes, it is one of the pillars of road safety. Thus, we remain firm in our commitment to address the roadworthiness requisite prior to renewal of vehicle registration,” said DOTr’s statement.