LTO approving MVICs to replace PETCs

Soon, private emission testing centers (PETC) may be replaced with private motor vehicle inspection centers (PMVIC). In a bid to address the many complaints over PETCs as well as ensure that every vehicle registered is road worthy, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has been fast-tracking the approval of PMVICs. These centers will inspect vehicles for compliance and roadworthiness as a requirement for registration.

The new PMVICs will not only check for compliance with emissions standards, they will also check a vehicle’s roadworthiness. This includes aspects like working lights, critical functions, as well the vehicle’s state of maintenance and operability. This will be a requirement prior to registration. Results will then be automatically sent to the LTO’s IT system for processing.

DOTr Secretary, Arthur Tugade, said that the automated system will also reduce the opportunities for corruption to occur. One common instance is the use of Photoshop-type photo manipulation for a fee to allow vehicles that failed emissions to beat the system.

According to the DOTr, out of the 138 identified sites, 113 have already been awarded to private operators with the 25 sites to still be awarded. The Authorization Committee is hoping to operationalize 32 PMVICs nationwide by the last week of August, 29 to be operational in September 2020, 14 in October 2020, 3 in November 2020, 5 in December 2020, and 25 by January 2021.

These MVICs may be the new norm for registration, requiring vehicle owners not just to meet emissions regulations, but to also check for illegal modifications, faulty parts that may hinder a vehicle’s roadworthiness and much more.

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