Holders of driver’s license with five-year or 10-year validity will no longer be obliged to undergo a periodic medical examination (PME), according to the Land Transportation Office (LTO), effective as of Monday, April 16.
LTO Chief Jay Art Tugade issued a directive to amend LTO Memorandum Circular 2021–2285 or the Supplemental Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act 10930.
Under the previous memorandum, those issued with a five-year or 10-year valid driver’s license still needed to undergo a PME aside from the regular medical examination as a requirement in applying for a new driver’s license or its renewal.
However, the agency’s studies and consultations have shown that there is no proof or data connecting PME to a lower risk of vehicular accidents.
“There’s no empirical data saying that the periodic medical examination could prevent road crashes,” Tugade said.
Meanwhile, Filipino drivers who are employed or residing overseas must have a medical checkup within 30 days of their arrival in the Philippines before having the right to drive in the Philippines.
Thumbnail photo courtesy of CFP/website
