We are here once again on our Public Service segment on Motoring Today. For
this week, we will talk about how some public utility vehicle drivers are
not following the rules and regulations of the recently-implemented
Republic Act 10913, also known as the Anti-Distracted Driving Law or ADDA.
As part of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the ADDA, using an
electronic device to play games, watch movies, browse the internet, etc.,
while the vehicle is moving is considered distracted driving. However, as
long as the gadgets are placed or mounted within the "safe zone", then it
is allowed, according to the Department of Transportation.
A concerned citizen sent this photo to us, showing a gadget mounted on the
rearview mirror of the UV Express while the vehicle is moving. According to
the complainant, they pointed out to the driver that placing a gadget in
the rearview mirror, which is outside the "safe zone", is prohibited under
the ADDA. The complainant added that the driver only responded with, "Pwede
'yan. Sa una lang bawal 'yon," and proceeded to watch the show despite
being called out.
As we know, this is exactly why the ADDA was implemented: to prevent the
drivers from having distractions while driving and to lessen the number of
reported road accidents. But months after the said law was implemented, it
looks like that some drivers have forgotten the importance of it.
With this, we will get insights from the proper authorities about their
enforcement of the Anti-Distracted Driving Law and what actions they take
regarding the motorists who violate the law.