DAVAO CITY — The Land Transportation Office Region 11 has apprehended a total of 164 drivers in here for violating the Clean Air Act for smoke belching from January to November of this year.

Michael Yarra, LTO-11 adjudicator, said that drivers apprehended for smoke belching are required to submit a passing emission test result and undergo a seminar on air pollution control.

However, Yarra said that the LTO is still coordinating with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources for available air pollution seminars for drivers.

"With regards to that, we are still communicating with DENR if we still need to convene to pass this regulation," he added.

Yarra said that some of the common reasons for failed emission tests include the vehicle owner's inability to maintain the condition of their vehicles and unclean pipes.

Penalties for smoke belching include a fine not exceeding P2,000 for the first offense, a fine not exceeding P4,000 for the second offense, and a one-year suspension of the motor vehicle registration and a fine of no more than P6,000 for the third offense.

Aside from roadside inspections, the LTO is reinforcing the anti-smoke belching campaign by ensuring that vehicles undergo emission tests and are emission-compliant during registration.

Yarra reminded drivers to abide by traffic rules and regulations to maintain road safety.