Administrative Order No. 18: President Marcos Enforces Ban on Sirens and Blinkers for Government Use
In a decisive move aimed at enhancing public safety and curbing misuse of authority, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. has issued Administrative Order No. 18, prohibiting government officials and personnel from using sirens, blinkers, and similar signaling or flashing devices, except under specific circumstances.
The order, grounded in the principle of public office as a public trust and in alignment with the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, revokes previous permissions for the attachment of such devices to government vehicles.
Citing the disruptive nature of unauthorized use of these devices and their potential to create unsafe road conditions, the administration underscores its commitment to fostering a secure and orderly traffic environment for the welfare of the general public.
Under the directive, all government officials and personnel are strictly forbidden from utilizing sirens, blinkers, or any similar gadgets producing loud or startling sounds, except under clearly appropriate circumstances. Only designated emergency vehicles such as those used by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), fire trucks, hospital ambulances, and other authorized emergency responders are exempt from this ban.
Furthermore, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) is tasked with revising and reinforcing existing policies and guidelines to ensure the effective enforcement of the order, in collaboration with relevant agencies.
Administrative Order No. 18 nullifies any conflicting regulations and takes immediate effect upon its publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation. President Marcos's firm stance reflects the government's unwavering dedication to upholding the highest standards of accountability, integrity, and public service.
With this decisive action, the administration aims to foster a culture of responsibility and respect for road safety, ensuring that the use of signaling devices is reserved for genuine emergencies and essential public services.
Visit the Official Gazette website: https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/9YnYlf