Question & AnswerQ&A (CUSTOMS MEMORANDUM ORDER NO. 16-2005)
Republic Act No. 8506 prohibits the importation, registration, use, or operation of vehicles with right-hand steering wheels on any public or private highways, streets, or roads in the Philippines.
Yes, exceptions are made for vintage automobiles manufactured before 1960 in showroom condition, vehicles exclusively for officially and legally sanctioned motorsports events, and off-road special purpose vehicles.
Violators face prision correccional in its medium period and a fine of fifty thousand pesos (P50,000).
The order enjoins all shipping lines and other common carriers not to accept right-hand drive vehicles or auto parts for RHD vehicles as cargo destined for any port of entry in the Philippines.
Such items will not be unloaded or, if already unloaded, placed under continuous underguarding until re-exported to the country of origin at the carrying vessel's expense, with possible penalties imposed by the Bureau of Customs.
All District or Port Collectors are directed to inform all shipping and airline companies calling at their ports about the order and to strictly enforce it.
The order took effect immediately upon its adoption on March 29, 2005.
Yes, the law applies to all highways, streets, or roads whether they are private, public, national, or local government roads.
They are vehicles designed for off-road use that are exempt from the prohibition even if they have right-hand steering wheels, as part of the exceptions allowed by the law.
They face criminal prosecution for violating RA 8506 and are subject to penalties such as confiscation of cargo and imposition of fines.