Marcos OKs 5-year registration validity for new cars

MANILA, Philippines — The validity of registration of new motor vehicles will be extended from three to five years, Malacañang announced yesterday.

President Marcos approved the proposal during a meeting with officials of the Department of Transportation (DOTr), according to Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro.

Acting DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez gave the President updates on ongoing major transportation infrastructure projects, including improvements on the country’s railway system.

During the meeting, DOTr officials said partial operation of the North-South Commuter Railway from Valenzuela City to Malolos, Bulacan is expected next year.

The DOTr also expects the partial operation in 2027 of the Metro Rail Transit 7, which connects Quezon City and Bulacan.

The Metro Manila subway is set to begin its initial run in 2028 and is expected to be fully operational by 2033, Castro said.

She said the President also directed Lopez to prioritize the welfare of commuters, keep transport facilities clean and ensure that trains are reliable and on-time at all times.