PNP to go after motorists illegally using sirens, blinkers

The Philippine National Police (PNP) will reportedly intensify its operations against the illegal use of sirens and blinkers, tasking its Highway Patrol Group (HPG) to double down on its operations in apprehending violators. 

The PNP is redoubling its efforts to curb the illegal use of sirens and blinkers 

This is pursuant to Presidential Decree No. 96, signed by former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., which limits the use of such devices to vehicles designated for official use by government offices and emergency responders. These include the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Land Transportation Office (LTO), PNP, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and hospital ambulances.

In a statement issued Wednesday, PNP Director for Operations Maj. Gen. Valeriano de Leon emphasized that private vehicles are not allowed to use sirens and blinkers. 

“Your PNP will not allow any person to disregard this law for whatever intention he or she has. This early, we advise the motor vehicle owners to remove their sirens and blinkers to avoid being arrested and face charges,” he said. 

Authorities emphasize that only official vehicles must be equipped with emergency devices

De Leon adds that the PNP has already instructed the HPG to coordinate with the LTO, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), and local government units to maximize the effect of its operations nationwide. He also warned auto shops and sellers from installing the devices on private vehicles. 

“Those who sell these items will be equally liable. Police commanders were already instructed to monitor the selling and installation of these devices in their areas of responsibility for appropriate action,” he said.   

Penalties outlined under P.D. 96 include confiscation of the devices for the first offense, with violators facing jail time of six months and a penalty of Php 600 for succeeding offenses. The registration of the motor vehicle where the accessories were attached will also be cancelled or revoked. 

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s father and namesake signed P.D. No. 96 into law in 1973 

The PNP is acting on the orders of officer-in-charge Lt. Gen. Vicente Danao Jr., in what is seen as a continuation of policy now that Marcos' son, Ferdinand Jr., has assumed the presidency. 

Last month, a group of motorcycle riders had their licenses revoked after figuring in a viral video that showed them flaunting illegal sirens and blinkers on their high-end adventure motorcycles, apart from not wearing any riding safety gear.   

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