Bill granting full refund for defective cars awaits PNoy's signature

MANILA, Philippines — A proposed law that protects buyers from defective motor vehicles has been approved by Congress, Senator Bam Aquino said on Friday.

Aquino said the Senate has ratified the bicameral conference committee report on the Philippine Lemon Law of 2014 before the body's sine die adjournment on Wednesday.

The Senate bill will be transmitted to Malacañang for the approval of President Benigno Aquino III.

"The passage of the Lemon Law is crucial since owning a vehicle is crucial in today's fast-paced life, especially for businessmen and entrepreneurs," said Aquino, sponsor of the consolidated bill filed by Senators Cynthia Villar and JV Ejercito.

Earlier, the bicameral conference committee adopted the House version of the Lemon Law, authored by Las Piñas Rep. Mark Villar.

Under the measure, consumers will get a full refund if the brand new motor vehicle that was bought would not be of standard and quality, 12 months or 20,000 kilometers from date of original delivery.

If the consumer remains unsatisfied with the efforts to the repair of the vehicle up to four times, the Department of Trade and Industry will exercise exclusive and original jurisdiction over disputes.

"Aside from consumer protection, the Lemon Law will provide consistent standards of quality and performance in the auto industry," Aquino said. -Louis Bacani