DTI to release IRR for Lemon Law

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is releasing the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) for the Philippine Lemon Law which seeks to protect vehicle owners later than earlier planned.

Trade Undersecretary Victorio Mario Dimagiba said in a text message the DTI has yet to publish the IRR for RA 10642 also known as the Philippine Lemon Law.

The DTI has earlier set a Nov. 7 target date for the release of the IRR. 

Dimagiba said the IRR needs the signature of the DTI Secretary who is on an official trip overseas, before it can be released.

“(We) need to wait for him,” he said. 

The DTI formed a technical working group composed of the Department of Transportation and Communications and other government agencies as well as members from the private and consumer sectors, for the crafting of the IRR.

The Lemon Law, signed by President Aquino on June 15, seeks to protect consumers in the event that a brand new vehicle purchased does not meet the standards set by the manufacturers.

Under the law, vehicle owners may demand for either a refund or replacement if the brand new car is found to have defects within one year from purchase and the glitches are unresolved even after four repair attempts by the concerned manufacturer, distributor, or authorized dealer or retailer.

The IRR will provide the procedures for consumers to avail of Lemon Law rights. 

As the DTI is the sole implementing agency of the law, it will have jurisdiction over disputes that may arise between car owners and the manufacturers or distributor or authorized retailer of the defective vehicle.