House denies permitting use of ‘8’ license plates

THE House of Representatives has denied issuing authorization on the use of special “8” car plates for its members during the 19th Congress.

“The unauthorized and illegal use of special plates is a matter that should not be tolerated as it poses a threat to public safety and undermines the integrity of the vehicle registration system,” House Secretary-General Reginald Velasco said on Friday.

The House issued the warning after several vehicles with special plates were apprehended for using the EDSA Busway lane.

“We urge all individuals to comply with the law and refrain from engaging in such activities,” Velasco added.

The crackdown on special plates and sirens, or “wang-wang,” garnered a positive response.

“There is no royal highness in his or her private car roaming on the streets; the removal of special license plates and the ban on ‘wang-wang’ are symbolic and positive steps towards ensuring no one is above the law. These actions help to eliminate signs of inequality and special treatment, reaffirming the constitutional right of equal protection before the law,” FFW National Vice President Jun Mendoza Ramirez said in a statement on Saturday.

The FFW also welcomed the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority’s implementation of a 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. work schedule for government offices in Manila.

“This adjustment will not only help in easing traffic but also significantly improve the working conditions for government employees by allowing them to avoid the busiest and hottest parts of the day,” it said.

University of the East-Ramon Magsaysay Medical Center Employees Union President Manuel Payao welcomed the development.

“This proactive change in work hours is a significant step toward enhancing the quality of life for our workers. It shows a thoughtful consideration of the health implications brought about by heat stress due to traffic congestion,” he said.

Meanwhile, Panay National Railways Employees Union President Jesus Porras Jr. called on the government to improve the country’s mass transportation infrastructure.

“We need to place greater emphasis on expanding our mass transportation networks. This should include an efficient train system across the nation and additional roads and bridges, skyways, the elimination of roadside parking, and strict enforcement of a ‘No car, no garage’ policy,” Porras said.