Singapore – Filipinos living, working, or driving in Singapore need to pay close attention. On August 4, 2026, Parliament passed the Traffic (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill, bringing some of the harshest penalties the country has seen for dangerous driving.
According to a news report by The Straits Times, the new laws follow a troubling rise in road tragedies. Traffic deaths reached a 10-year high of 149 in 2025, prompting lawmakers to act decisively after a debate that ran for over six hours.
Stricter Alcohol Limits and Jail Time
The changes hit drink drivers hardest. The breath alcohol limit has been slashed by more than half — from 35 micrograms to just 15 micrograms per 100ml. The blood alcohol limit drops from 80mg to 30mg per 100ml.
This is a big deal. Under the old rules, first-time offenders without accidents usually got a fine and a two-year driving ban. Now, first-time drink drivers can face up to 12 months in jail on top of those penalties. Traffic Police will also use new handheld breathalysers to test drivers accurately at the roadside.
A New Offence: Purposeful Endangerment
The Bill introduces a serious new charge called “purposeful endangerment.” This targets drivers who deliberately use their vehicles to harm others, causing death or grievous injury.
The penalties are severe:
- Up to 15 years’ jail
- Caning
- A lifetime driving ban (or at least 10 years in special cases)
- Possible seizure of the vehicle
Holding a Phone Is Now Enough
Here’s a change many drivers will feel right away. You no longer need to be actively using your phone to get in trouble. Simply holding a mobile device while driving is now an offence, even if you’re not tapping or scrolling.
First-time offenders can be jailed for up to six months and fined up to $1,000. Repeat offenders face up to a year in jail and $2,000 in fines. Mounted devices are still allowed, and you can hold your phone when the vehicle is stationary.
Drug Driving and What Comes Next
Drug driving is now a chargeable offence too. Authorities can prosecute anyone found with controlled or psychoactive substances in their blood, regardless of the quantity or whether their driving looked impaired.
More changes are on the way. A stricter demerit points system takes effect in 2027, making it easier for authorities to suspend problem drivers.
For Filipinos behind the wheel in Singapore, the message is clear: drive carefully, stay sober, and keep that phone down.