If you’re a vehicle owner who has ever been forced to buy compulsory third-party liability (CTPL) insurance to renew your registration despite already having comprehensive coverage, here’s a clarification: You don’t need to purchase CTPL separately if you already have a comprehensive policy. While this might seem obvious, a recent Senate hearing has highlighted that some front-line staff at the Land Transportation Office (LTO) may need a reminder.
According to a Manila Bulletin report, Senator Raffy Tulfo and Insurance Commissioner Atty. Reynaldo Regalado addressed this issue during a Senate committee hearing on October 2. Senator Tulfo has raised the issue multiple times this year. Secretary Jaime Bautista of the Department of Transportation reiterated in June that if a comprehensive insurance policy includes TPL coverage, separate CTPL insurance isn’t required. Comprehensive car insurance policies often include TPL coverage.
“If [the LTO] are doing the right thing, the vehicle owner should not be charged with TPL,” Regalado stated before the Senate. He added, “The problem is on the [LTO frontline]” and stated that he is arranging a meeting with the LTO to provide a refresher course on vehicle insurance policies. This refresher will include assessments to ensure LTO front-liners are sure the comprehensive insurance policy provides the required TPL coverage.
