90 sirens seized in south Metro

MANILA, Philippines - A total of 90 unauthorized sirens, or more than half of those confiscated in the National Capital Region since President Aquino reiterated the ban against its illegal use last week, have been seized in southern Metro Manila alone.

Chief Inspector Jenny Tecson, public information officer of the Southern Police District said as of July 5, a total of 69 sirens have been confiscated in Muntinlupa, 20 in Makati, and one in Parañaque. She said most of the confiscated sirens in Muntinlupa were surrendered voluntarilly by motorists, while 13 have been siezed from those passing through checkpoints at Sucat, Alabang and Zapote.

Southern Metro Manila district is composed of the cities of Las Piñas, Makati, Muntinlupa, Parañaque, Pasay, Pateros, and Taguig. Tecson said the rest of the cities have yet to submit their report. 

Earlier, the National Capital Region Police Office said about 148 sirens have been confiscated a week after the President reiterated the prohibition on the illegal use of sirens as provided by Presidential Decree No. 96 of the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos.

Under the decree, only the President, Vice President, motor vehicles designated for official use by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, National Bureau of Investigation, Land Transportation Commission, Police Departments Fire Departments, and hospital ambulances are allowed to use sirens.