HPG-7 steps up campaign vs unauthorized blinkers


CEBU CITY – The Highway Patrol Group-Central Visayas (HPG-7) has intensified its operations against the unauthorized use of blinkers and other signaling or flashing devices.

Police Lt. Col. Wilbert Parilla, chief of HPG-7, said that the intensified campaign is in response to Administrative Order (AO) No. 18 that the Office of the President issued and bars  government officials and personnel from using blinkers commonly known as “wang-wang.”

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THE Highway Patrol Group-Central Visayas led by Police Lt. Col. Wilbert Parilla seized blinkers and other signaling or flashing devices for unauthorized use. (Calvin D. Cordova)

Parilla disclosed that from January to April this year, 530 blinkers, sirens, strobe lights, and horns were seized in various operations in Region 7.

He said the HPG-7 has coordinated with local government units in the region for the enforcement of the AO.

Blinkers and other devices will be confiscated for first offense. Second infraction will lead to the issuance of a Temporary Operator’s Permit (TOP).

Parilla said they are using a demerit system for violators. Individuals who will reach the maximum demerit will no longer be allowed to possess a driver’s license with a 10-year validity.

He reminded that only the marked vehicles of Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Bureau of Fire Protection, and ambulances are allowed to use blinkers, sirens, and flashing devices.

The Bureau of Jail Management is allowed to use these devices but with prior coordination with the HPG.

“They have an exemption as long as they will coordinate with us especially in situation where they have to bring inmates to court hearings,” said Parilla.