Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 11698)
The short title of Republic Act No. 11698 is the "Vintage Vehicle Regulation Act."
The State declares the policy to protect, preserve, enhance, and promote the nation's heritage by preserving vintage vehicles, establishing regulatory policies to encourage their preservation and use, increasing economic opportunities for restoration industries, and encouraging tourism through promotional events and museums.
The Act applies to all aspects of the regulation of the importation, exportation, registration, and use of vintage vehicles.
A vintage vehicle is defined as a motor vehicle at least 40 years old from the date of manufacture, with original or authentic chassis, engine, steering, and suspension, whose body has not been altered in general appearance, excluding replicas and reproductions.
Yes. Vintage vehicles registered under this Act are exempt from clean-air, anti-pollution, safety, road-use, and other standards that were not in force at their manufacture time, except that vintage vehicles manufactured after December 31, 1967, must have safety belts as mandated by law.
Vintage vehicles, including concours, RESTOMOD, and those for repair or restoration, as well as authentic components, body shells, engines, transmissions, spare parts, and accessories may be imported by any person or entity.
Vintage vehicles may be exported without restriction except those with historical significance certified by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, such as vehicles of former Presidents, which may only be exported for repair or restoration abroad with NHCP authorization.
Restoration shops and companies engaged in importation and exportation of vintage vehicles for restoration may avail of fiscal and tax incentives under Republic Act No. 11534, subject to legal compliance.
The prohibition on right-hand drive vehicles does not apply to vintage vehicles manufactured on or before December 31, 1970, or to those intended for racing or motorsports.
Permitted modifications include those historically made during or within ten years after production, safety improvements to brakes and suspension, fuel system upgrades to improve performance, installation of new modern engines of the same brand or model lineage, and aftermarket accessories for convenience or safety.