Senator Tito Sotto, Senate's Majority Floor Leader called for the Senate Public Services to review its IRR. He believes the IRR created so much complications that made motorist confuse.
"We really have to find out what do they mean by line of sight, like for example-in my case, Idrive my car with a heads-up display, so what do they want me to do now, to tell the car manufacturer to remove my windshield?" He said in an interview.
He stated that lawmakers need to talk specifically with the Transportation Department with regards to concerns coming from motorists.
Republic Act 10913 or also known as Anti-Distracted Driving Act prevents motorists from not only using gadgets while driving but mandates them to remove anything on their dashboards and windshields that will cause any distractions and block their line of sight.
A fine of P5, 000 for first offense violators.
The law is primarily focusing on banning motorists from texting or calling using mobile phones. The principal authors of the law were Jinggoy Estrada, Bong Revilla Jr. and Serge Osmeña.
Senator Ejercito said Monday that the DOTr officials didn't seem to understand the nature of the law and have made matters complicated, when its only about banning the use of phones while driving. He also stated that the implementing department should reconsider strict provisions with the placements of the cellphones within the line of sight of motorists.
"We rarely hear of road accidents that result from the use of navigational apps. Definitely, texting and tinkering with a mobile phone while driving is a no-no. But when it is used as a navigational aid and it is properly placed, it is okay," Ejercito said.
Even other Senators expressed their concerns and also called for implementation review for the rules and guidelines.
Senator said that the real intention of the law disappeared which is only prohibiting the use of mobile phones while driving and also noted that the law is being interpreted differently everyday. Every day it seemed as if the interpretations in IRR are exagerrated. She also said that she doens't believe that even rosaries and air fresheners should be prohibited too.
Senator Gordon had the same thought he said that the prohibited items have gone too far and defended the reason for allowing rosaries.
He stated that the rosaries are part of Filipino culture. He carries a rosary of his own but was never distracted by it. He also said that Anything that will create a dangerous situation of people in the highway should be policed, but that is too much, rosaries doesn't cause distraction.
On May 18, the Anti-Distracted Driving Act was first implemented and the board will have to meet again for a review in the regulations.
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