QUEZON CITY – Antique cars are grand relics of the past; which will always have a significant, if not a special place in history. Preserving them is a great and costly undertaking which the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) has done with the Presidential Car Museum. Hence, it is not surprising that the ceremonial signing of the Implementing Rules of Regulation (IRR) of the Vintage Vehicle Law (Republic Act 11698) will be done in the museum.

Under the Act, cars that are currently or previously owned by  any President of the Philippines; a car regularly used by the President or officially designated by the Presidential Security Group (PSG); cars used as private vehicles of the President during their term on a  regular basis; cars used for historic events or even once owned by a person of historic significance as recognized by NHCP, will be included. It also covers vehicles used in events of historic significance, considered one of a kind or unique and those used in the olden days before the common use of cars in the country.

The act also stipulates that vintage vehicles may be imported without restriction as long as it serves in the interest of preserving cultural and historical heritage of the country, as certified by the NHCP. The agency is also expected to promote and encourage correct and safe maintenance of vintage vehicles through information and education campaigns.

The Vintage Vehicle Act IRR will also set guidelines to vintage vehicle owners, and local motoring community in the hopes of developing the local vintage car restoration industry.

The program’s welcome remarks will be delivered by NHCP Chairman Dr. Emmanuel Franco Calairo; along with messages coming from Hon. Paul Ruiz Daza, Senior Deputy Minority Leader and Northern Samar 1st District Representative; Hon. Juan Miguel F. Zubiri, Senate President; and Atty. Jose Arturo Tugade, Assistant Secretary, Land Transportation Office.

Members and representatives from the Automobile Association of the Philippines, Manila Sports Car Club, Makati Rotary Club, Porsche Car Club, and Vintage Car Club will also be present. The event  starts at 830am, Sunday on 12 March 2023 at the Presidential Car Museum, Quezon Memorial Circle. The museum will be closed until 1pm but regular guests may visit after the program.

The NHCP is the national agency mandated to promote and preserve Philippine historical heritage through research and publication, conservation, heraldry and administration of historic sites and structures.