CAMPI urges motorists to be careful as auto crimes continue to rise

MANILA, Philippines - The Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (CAMPI) is urging motorists to be careful as auto crimes continue to intensify.

 “If somebody bumps your car don’t stop. The insurance should cover it,” CAMPI president Elizabeth H. Lee said in an interview.

 According to Lee, it is wise for motorists to have updated insurance policies because the most common modus operandi of crooks is to bump the car forcing the driver to alight from their vehicle and then take the car at gun point.

 “If this happens to you, just give your car because your life is more important. Besides the insurance will replace your vehicle,” Lee said.

Lee has expressed alarm over the rise in car related crimes. She said they are urging the government to put up more closed circuit television (CCTV) in various areas in the metropolis.

When asked if it is advisable to make the Global Positioning System (GPS) mandatory, Lee said that it is an option for buyers but it is not required to get one. She said that a GPS system costs anywhere from P20,000 to P80,000.

Another technique of criminals, Lee said is to say that there is smoke coming out from your hood. Lee advised that the best thing is to ignore these warnings especially if you are confident that your vehicle is in good condition. If you must stop, Lee advised that it should be in a well lighted place with many people.

“This is also true even for gassing up. Pick a gas station that is well lit and when you are retrieving your car in the parking area make sure that you have your key handy so you don’t have to stay long in the parking area,” Lee advised.

Lee said that the recent crime wave still has no effect on the auto sales and it is too early to tell if it will have an impact.