PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) Chief Oscar Albayalde warned the public, particularly political candidates, against use of sirens, blinkers and other similar devices when campaigning.

Albayalde said he ordered the Highway Patrol Group (HPG) to strictly enforce the provisions of Presidential Decree 96 that prohibits 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.”

"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 dome lights, signaling or flashing devices," he said.

The PNP chief said sirens and blinkers can only be used on motor vehicles designated for official use of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, National Bureau of Investigation, Land Transportation Office, police departments, fire departments, and hospital ambulances.

He said violation to the prohibition may be penalized with cancellation or revocation of the certificate of registration of the motor vehicle involved.

The PNP also reminded candidates and parties to observe and follow 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.

HPG advised organizers of large convoys and motorcades to coordinate their activities with local government units and local PNP offices for appropriate assistance. (SunStar Philippines)