PNP-HPG wants regulation on sale of blinkers, 'wang-wang'

The Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) has recommended the regulation of the sale of emergency vehicle sirens or "wang-wang,” and blinkers to avoid abuse.

In a Super Radyo dzBB interview, PNP-HPG Director Police Brigadier General Francisco Marbil said the law only prohibits installation of sirens and blinkers on unauthorized vehicles, but not the sale of these devices.

“I hope it will be part ng legislative natin for this incoming Congress na mai-regulate na talaga ang blinkers and sirens [to allow] enforcement agencies natin to control it every year,” he said.

[We expect the 19th Congress will move to regulate the sale of these devises to  also help enforcement agencies control the abuses.] 

“Not because may weakness sa enforcement natin but may problem sa batas natin. Batas po ang problema” (there is problem with the law, not with enforcement), he added.

Under Presidential Decree No. 96 issued by late dictator Ferdinand Marcos Sr., motorists are prohibited from using emergency devices including blinkers and dome lights.

These emergency devices are allowed only on ambulances, fire trucks, and for personnel of the PNP, military, National Bureau of Investigation, and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board during emergency situations.

Also allowed to use are the country’s top five officials including the President, Vice-President, Senate President, House Speaker, and Chief Justice.

Marbil warned that violators will be penalized with a fine of P5,000 and may have their driver’s license confiscated.

Senator JV Ejercito earlier urged President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos to revive the campaign against unauthorized use of wang-wang and similar emergency devices. —LBG, GMA News