Additional Fine for Impoundment
- An additional fine ranging from PHP 1,500 to PHP 2,500 per day is imposed based on the following schedule:
- PHP 1,500 per day for the first offense
- PHP 2,000 per day for the second offense
- PHP 2,500 per day for the third offense
- This additional fine applies only when there is actual or physical impoundment of the motor vehicle.
- The fine does not apply to "technical impoundment," which involves only the taking custody of the license plates.
Applicability to Specific Violations
- The additional fines apply exclusively to cases involving "out of line operations" and the operation of "colorum motor vehicles."
- These fines are imposed on owners or operators found guilty of these specific violations.
- Other violations that might carry impoundment as an accessory penalty are not subject to the additional fines.
Commencement of Fine Imposition Period
- The counting of impoundment days for the purpose of fines starts on the date of encoding.
- The encoding must be done within 72 hours from the date of apprehension.
- The 72-hour period refers strictly to working days; Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays are excluded from this timeframe.
Enforcement and Accessory Penalties
- Suspension penalties imposed on both owners and drivers are to be strictly enforced alongside the fines.
- No lifting of suspension for registration documents or driver’s license is allowed until the full suspension period has been served.
- Release of impounded motor vehicles or licensed plates (in case of technical impoundment) is prohibited until compliance with suspension penalties is confirmed.
Implementation and Administrative Instructions
- The STRADCOM is ordered to adjust the LETAS system to enable effective enforcement of the circular.
- Any prior memoranda or circulars inconsistent with this directive are considered superseded or modified accordingly.
- The circular took effect immediately upon issuance on June 19, 2009.
Summary of Legal Concepts and Penalties
- Emphasizes strict adherence to rules on vehicle impoundment fines and suspensions for prohibited operations.
- Differentiates between physical impoundment and technical impoundment in imposing additional fines.
- Clarifies that additional fines apply only to specific offenses affecting vehicle operation legality.
- Establishes procedural timelines for administrative processing of fines and encoded records.
- Ensures that suspension penalties are enforced as a condition precedent to vehicle or plate release.
- Seeks uniformity in penalties and enforcement through updated administrative systems and rules.