Recently, President Duterte signed the Republic Act No. 10928 that extends the validity of drivers’ licenses and passports.
Originally, the Philippine passport is valid for 5 years, but the new law extends the validity for 10 years. However, the extension of validity exempts those applicants under 18 years old. The validity period can be less than 10 years if restriction is necessary. This may be applicable in case of national economic or political stability.
The main author of this republic act is Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. This will spare the applicant from the cost of renewing a passport and the tedious process involved. Likewise, the new law will also allow every Filipino to exercise the right to travel.
Read also: Guide On How To Process Passport
When it comes to the driver’s license, RA 10930 extends the validity for 10 years as long as the applicant won’t commit any violation. On the other hand, the new law has instructed the Land Transportation Office or LTO to implement stricter rules pertaining to the issuance of driver’s license. Only applicants who will pass the practical and theoretical examinations will be issued a driver’s license.
Issuance of driver’s license to unqualified applicant has a corresponding penalty such as dismissal from the service of the issuing officer. In the same manner, applicants found out to connive with the official, provides false information, falsify documents, and cheat during the examination will be obliged to pay the Php20,000 penalty.
Repetition of offense would mean perpetual disqualification of getting a driver’s license. Driver’s license should be issued to deserving applicants who have adequate skills in driving and knowledge about road safety as well as proper road courtesy.