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Also, the matters contained in the following were written in accordance with the law, rules, and jurisprudence prevailing at the time of writing and posting, and do not include any future developments on the subject matter under discussion.
AT A GLANCE:
Since 1997, the month of November has been celebrated as Clean Air Month Through National Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance Consciousness. (Proclamation No. 1109, s. 1997)
The law says:
“WHEREAS, the pollution of the air in rapidly urbanizing areas, particularly in Metro Manila, the home of about 9.5 million people as of 1995 estimates, has reached levels that adversely affect human health and public welfare and calls for more aggressive efforts to reduce emissions in the air;
WHEREAS, air pollution is caused by increased emissions of carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds, oxides of nitrogen and sulfur and particulate matter from sources that burn fuels for energy;
WHEREAS, motor vehicles which were estimated to have produced almost 65 million metric tons of pollutants in 1993, account for the majority of total airborne pollutants in Metro Manila;
WHEREAS, the almost 2.6 million motor vehicles nationwide, 43% of which are in Metro Manila, continue to grow in number at about 8% per year, threatening to consume more fuel and to emit more toxic gases into the atmosphere;
WHEREAS, although technological advances in engine design, pollution devices and fuels have continued to develop, the motorist’s neglect of his vehicle’s maintenance remains a major contributor to the rise in vehicle emission;
WHEREAS, engine malfunctions that contribute to excessive pollution can be corrected often with simple maintenance, resulting in substantial emission reduction and fuel savings;
WHEREAS, there is a need to create awareness among the motoring public regarding the importance and benefits of vehicle maintenance.” (Proclamation No. 1109, s. 1997)
The observance of Clean Air Month aligns seamlessly with the provisions of Republic Act No. 8749, also known as the Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999. This initiative aims to raise public consciousness and remind vehicle owners to actively enhance air quality by regularly inspecting and maintaining their vehicles
Thus, in light of the foregoing, the Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999 provides:
Section 21. Pollution from Motor Vehicles. – a) The DOTC shall implement the emission standards for motor vehicles set pursuant to and as provided in this Act. To further improve the emission standards, the Department shall review, revise and publish the standards every two (2) years, or as the need arises. It shall consider the maximum limits for all major pollutants to ensure substantial improvement in air quality for the health, safety and welfare of the general public.
Section 46. Violation of Standards for Motor Vehicles. – No motor vehicle shall be registered with the DOTC unless it meets the emission standards set by the Department as provided in Sec. 21 hereof.
Any vehicle suspected of violation of emission standards through visual signs, such as, but not limited to smoke-belching, shall be subjected to an emission test by a duly authorized emission testing center. For this purpose, the DOTC or its authorized testing center shall establish a roadside inspection system. Should it be shown that there was no violation of emission standards, the vehicle shall be immediately released. Otherwise, a testing result indicating an exceedance of the emission standards would warrant the continuing custody of the impounded vehicle unless the appropriate penalties are fully paid, and the license plate is surrendered to the DOTC pending the fulfillment of the undertaking by the owner/operator of the motor vehicle to make the necessary repairs so as to comply with the standards. A pass shall herein be issued by the DOTC to authorize the use of the motor vehicle within a specified period that shall not exceed seven (7) days for the sole purpose of making the necessary repairs on the said vehicle. The owner/operator of the vehicle shall be required to correct its defects and show proof of compliance to the appropriate pollution control office before the vehicle can be allowed to be driven on any public or subdivision roads.
Designating a specific month for this campaign serves as a platform for community efforts in educating the public about the important role that routine vehicle maintenance plays in curbing air pollution. Additionally, it encourages a culture of responsibility among vehicle owners, emphasizing their contribution to a cleaner and healthier environment.
Therefore, Clean Air Month stands as a powerful platform for advocacy and action toward a more sustainable and lung-friendly environment.
Read also: World Clean and Green Week (Proclamation No. 244, Series of 1993)
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