Alarming Vehicle Inspection Findings: 45% Fail Brake Tests, 37% Have Defective Headlights

The Vehicle Inspection Center Operators Association of the Philippines (VICOAP) has revealed troubling statistics regarding vehicle safety in the Philippines, with 45.1% of inspected vehicles failing brake tests and 37.3% exhibiting defective headlights. This data was presented during a roundtable discussion held in May 2025, aimed at raising awareness around road safety amidst rising concerns about vehicular accidents in the country.

The statistics come from VICOAP's report, which analyzed vehicles submitted for inspection at member facilities throughout 2024. Additional findings revealed that 9.2% of vehicles failed alignment (sideslip) tests, 5.3% had speedometer issues, and 3.1% did not meet emission standards. Atty. Lester G. Cavestany, the spokesperson for VICOAP, emphasized the importance of these inspections in preventing accidents, stating, "These numbers aren’t just statistics. They’re early warnings that, if ignored, could result in preventable accidents".

Founded in 2020, VICOAP advocates for mandatory vehicle inspections as part of the vehicle registration renewal process. However, the proposal faced resistance, leading to the current optional status of inspections. Despite this, VICOAP continues to promote the necessity of inspections as a means to enhance road safety, particularly as road crashes claim approximately 13,000 lives annually in the Philippines.

The organization has highlighted that regular vehicle inspections are crucial for ensuring roadworthiness and preventing accidents. With over 130 PMVICs operating nationwide, VICOAP provides services to more than 2 million vehicles annually. The inspection process, which includes a comprehensive 60-point check of critical safety systems—such as brake integrity, lighting function, and emission levels—is conducted using fully automated systems for accuracy and fairness.

VICOAP's advocacy emphasizes that vehicle inspections should not be seen merely as a regulatory requirement but rather as a vital tool for protecting lives on the road. Atty. Cavestany reiterated, "Road safety doesn’t begin when we buckle our seatbelts. It starts before the engine is even turned on."

As the country grapples with the high incidence of vehicular accidents, particularly in urban areas, VICOAP is urging motorists to take proactive measures by having their vehicles inspected, even if not mandated for registration renewal. The organization remains committed to fostering a culture of safety and accountability among Filipino motorists through education and awareness campaigns.

In conclusion, the alarming statistics from VICOAP serve as a call to action for both motorists and policymakers. There is a pressing need to prioritize vehicle safety inspections in efforts to reduce road accidents and save lives. As VICOAP continues its advocacy, the hope is that increased awareness will lead to better vehicle maintenance and, ultimately, safer roads across the Philippines.