Texting-while-driving to be outlawed in the Philippines

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Rep. Tieng has filed House Bill 2136, also known as "An act to prohibit and penalise reading, composing, and sending electronic messages while driving, and for other purposes", on August 3, 2010. Philippine lawmakers have finally recognised the road safety risks arising from drivers being distracted behind the wheel. 

In the US, Oprah Winfrey has launched the "No Phone Zone" campaign this year (and has famous people supporting it). Several states have already passed laws banning texting, using the phone, and using headsets to handle calls while driving. Other countries in Europe, Asia, Australia, and Africa also have laws in effect. 

I'm glad that the Philippine Congress is taking steps to curb the dangers of having distracted drivers on the road, following the footsteps of other nations. The Metro Manila Development Authority has expressed its support for this bill, while Makati and Quezon City have already passed ordinances totally banning the use of mobile phones while driving. 

I hope that this bill gets the support it needs in Congress and in the Senate, later on.

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