A viable industry
THE government, through the two-chamber Congress, would do well to promote the little-known but promising vintage car restoration industry in the Philippines.
And the Filipino people, who are known worldwide for their ingenuity and craftmanship, expect the industry to flourish once Senate Bill (SB) No. 2396 becomes a law.
Otherwise known as the proposed “Vintage Vehicle Regulation Act,” SB No. 2396 is authored by higly-articulate Sen. Sherwin “Win” T. Gatchalian of Valenzuela City.
The measure seeks to cover all aspects of the regulation of the importation and exportation, registration and use of vintage vehicles that are at least 30 years old from the date of manufacture.
Likewise, Gatchalian’s SB No. 2396 is seen to create much-needed jobs for the country’s skilled mechanics, tinsmiths, craftsmen, painters, laborers and shop owners.
Gatchalian, a businessman, expressed belief that the country’s vintage car restoration industry can spur economic activity and serve a niche market here and abroad.
“Maliit na industriya ito pero kahit papaano, with the proposed law, matutulungan nating maitaguyod ang vintage car restoration (in the country),” he said.
Filipino car enthusiasts who are into car restoration have found it to be a lucrative business, earning them recognitions and awards in major auto competitions, said Gatchalian.
Note that many vintage cars restored in the Philippines are being sold in Australia “ng times 10 ang presyo,” according to the workaholic senator from Valenzuela City.
Without doubt, the continuing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, which has devastated the economy, makes the approval of SB No. 2396 more urgent.
