Philippine Lemon Law amendment pressed
DEPUTY Speaker Las Piñas Representative Camille Villar has proposed amendments to the almost decade-old RA 10642, or the Philippine Lemon Law.
In filing House Bill 10347, Villar wants to address growing complaints from consumers who have been having difficulties in running after manufacturers, distributors, dealers or retailers engaged in deceptive business and trade practices.
Villar noted that despite the existence of RA 10642, which was enacted on July 15, 2014, “a number of complaints against non-conformity, defect or condition that substantially impairs the use, value or safety of brand-new motor vehicles have not been satisfactorily or expeditiously resolved.”
The Philippine Lemon Law provides protection to buyers of motor vehicles against issues that prevents the purchased motor vehicle from conforming to the manufacturer or distributor’s standards or specifications and which cannot be repaired.
Villar said the problem lies with the “cumbersome process” of availing the protection and rights under the Philippine Lemon Law.”
In particular, she said the provision giving manufacturers, distributors, dealers or retailers four attempts to repair the defective cars within the first 12 months from the date of delivery has made it inconvenient and burdensome for consumers/buyers to avail of their rights under RA 10642.
Villar also proposed that “to compensate for the non-usage of the vehicle while under repair and during the period of availment of the Lemon Law rights, the consumer shall be provided with either a reasonable daily transportation allowance, an amount which covers the transportation of the consumer from his or her residence to his or her regular workplace or destination and vice versa; equivalent to air-conditioned taxi fare [as evidenced by an official receipt], or in such amount to be agreed upon by the parties.”
