In the Philippines, Republic Act 10586, also known as the Anti-Drunk and Anti-Drug Driving Act, stands as critical legislation aimed at promoting road safety and curbing the prevalence of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This law sets stringent measures and penalties to deter motorists from engaging in such dangerous behaviors.
After all, if you are driving a vehicle, you need to be of full attention and alertness. You should not be driving while intoxicated. Please follow the proper guidelines about this ADDA rule.

Understanding the RA 10586
The law seeks to minimize the number of accidents caused by impaired drivers by deterring drunk and drugged driving. It also encourages responsible driving behavior, creating a safer environment for everyone using Philippine roads. By penalizing offenders, RA 10586 discourages driving under the influence, safeguarding the well-being of drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and other road users.
What Does The Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Law Cover
Strict prohibitions and penalties are imposed by RA 10586 to confront the problem of drunk driving. The law covers the following aspects:
- Prohibition of Drunk and Drugged Driving: Drivers whose capacity to drive safely is impaired by alcohol, illicit drugs, or prescribed medications are prohibited from operating a vehicle by RA 10586.
- Establishment of Legal Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limit: The law sets a legal threshold for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at 0.05%. Motorists found to have a BAC exceeding this limit are considered to be driving under the influence and are subject to penalties.
- Implementation of Sobriety Tests: It is possible for law enforcement officers to administer sobriety tests, such as breathalyzers or field sobriety tests, in order to determine whether or not a driver is in drugs or alcohol while operating a motor vehicle.
- Implementation of Sobriety Tests: Law enforcement officials have the authority to administer sobriety tests, such as field sobriety tests or breathalyzer tests, to ascertain if a driver is under the influence.
Anyone who operates a motor vehicle on Philippine roads is subject to the authority of the law. Cars, motorcycles, tricycles, and any privately owned motor vehicle are covered. Individuals holding professional driver’s licenses, such as bus drivers and taxi operators, face stricter penalties for violations.
Penalties If Caught Driving Under The Influence
The gravity of the conduct and the circumstances surrounding the violation both play a role in determining the number of penalties imposed for breaching Republic Act 10586.
The seriousness of the infraction and the number of prior offenses determine the considerable penalty motorists found guilty may face. It can range from Php 20,000 to Php 500,000.
For certain offenses, such as those involving multiple offenses or accidents leading to serious injuries or fatalities, the court or the LTO may decide to suspend or revoke the license for a certain time.
Depending on the seriousness of the violation and its repercussions, individuals found guilty of driving under the influence may face imprisonment for three months to twenty years.
Sobriety Tests
Law enforcement can administer sobriety tests to assess DUI under RA 10586. The drug test can involve a urine or blood sample to detect the presence of illegal drugs or other prohibited substances.
Law enforcement officers may administer breathalyzer tests to measure the alcohol content in a motorist’s breath. A BAC exceeding the legal limit of 0.05% indicates impairment and may lead to further penalties.
Officers may conduct walk-and-turn or one-leg stand tests to check the motorist’s coordination, balance, and cognitive function. Failure to perform these tests satisfactorily may provide grounds for suspicion of impairment.
Drivers are required to cooperate with authorized sobriety tests. Refusal to undergo testing can lead to automatic penalties, including license revocation. Remember, getting behind the wheel under the influence is not worth the risk – for yourself or others.