DOTC clarifies lifting of smoke-belch tests

The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) clarified yesterday that mandatory vehicle emission testing for private vehicles is still being enforced.

Transport Undersecretary Arturo Valdez said the temporary lifting of testing applies only to public utility vehicles. Passenger buses, jeepneys, taxis, school buses, trucks for hire and vehicles for hire will be required to undergo tests January next year.

Last Oct. 1, the DOTC implemented the smoke-belch program for all motor vehicles in compliance with the Clean Air Act. But last week, the Land Transportation Office was ordered to lift testing prior to renewal of registration to give motorists more time to tune-up their vehicles.

DOTC spokesman Thompson Lantion said they will be coordinating with transport groups to iron out issues. – Sheila Crisostomo