More illegal sirens, blinkers seized after Marcos order —HPG

The number of confiscated illegal sirens, blinkers, and other signaling devices has increased after President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. banned government officials and workers from using them.

From April 15 to 21, the Philippine National Police (PNP) - Highway Patrol Group (HPG) said a total of 481 signaling devices were seized, including 463 blinkers and lights as well as 18 sirens and horns.

This was higher compared to the previous week where only 55 signaling devices were confiscated.

On April 11, Marcos prohibited government officials and personnel from using sirens, blinkers, and other similar signaling devices which he said were causing traffic disruptions.

''It has been observed that the unauthorized and indiscriminate use of sirens, blinkers, and other similar signaling or flashing devices has been rampant, causing traffic disruptions and unsafe road and traffic environment,'' Marcos said through Administrative Order No. 18.

He pointed out that the unauthorized and improper use of signaling or flashing devices by government officials and employees shall be dealt with in accordance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

Exempted from the said order are the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), the PNP, fire trucks, hospital ambulances, and other emergency vehicles.

After Marcos’ order, the PNP said it would be stricter in enforcing rules and regulations regarding the use of sirens, blinkers, and other similar devices.

PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Jean Fajardo said that even before Marcos’ Executive Order 18, authorities have been enforcing Presidential Decree 96.

“We will be more strict in the enforcement po nitong Presidential Decree 96,” Fajardo said.

“But like I said, even prior to the issuance po ng Executive Order 18, the Highway Patrol Group has been enforcing the provision ng PD 96.” 

PD 96, issued in 1973, makes it illegal for private vehicles to install blinkers, sirens and other related devices.

Fajardo vowed that the police will be impartial in enforcing the law against the illegal use of sirens and other signaling devices regardless of social status. —VAL, GMA Integrated News