PNP revives campaign vs sirens, blinkers

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has revived the Aquino administration’s strict implementation of the campaign against the use of sirens and blinkers following reports of its prevalent use in convoys and motorcades of political parties and candidates.

PNP chief Director General Oscar Albayalde said he had already reminded the Highway Patrol Group and other police area commanders of the existing prohibition the use of blinkers and sirens.

“We are moving forcefully against the indiscriminate use of prohibited sirens, bells, horns, whistles, or similar gadgets that produce staggering sounds; as well as illegal domelights, signaling or flashing devices,” said Albayalde.

Under Presidential Decree 96, sirens and blinkers can only be used on motor vehicles designated for official use of the following agencies and offices: Armed Forces of the Philippines, National Bureau of Investigation, Land Transportation Commission, Police Departments, Fire Departments, and hospital ambulances.

Violation of PD 96, according to Albayalde, may be penalized with cancellation or revocation of the certificate of registration of the motor vehicle involved.

The crackdown against illegal use of sirens and blinkers became popular during the Aquino administration under the ‘no wangwang’ slogan.

Recently, the PNP leadership has been receiving complaints on the use of sirens and blinkers as some motorists are using them in an attempt to enjoy special road privileges.

The complaints have started to pile up anew since the start of the campaign period for senatorial candidates and party-list groups last month.

“Acting on persistent reports of violations by convoys and motorcades of political parties and candidates for the 2019 midterm elections, I put to task the PNP Highway Patrol Group to strictly enforce the provisions of Presidential Decree Number 96,” said Albayalde.

The prohibition includes the use of siren, bell, horn, whistle, or other similar gadgets that produce exceptionally loud or startling sound, including dome lights, blinkers, and other similar signaling or flashing devices.

At the same time, the PNP also reminded candidates and parties to observe road safety protocol and courtesy when holding campaign motorcades and convoys along national highways and main thoroughfares to prevent accidents and unnecessary inconvenience to other motorists.

Albayalde also advised organizers of large convoys and motorcades to coordinate their activities with local government units and local PNP offices for appropriate assistance.