The LTO has activated a text hotline where you can report illegal ‘wang-wang’ users

Save the number: 0929 292 0865. This is the ‘Aksyon on the Spot’ hotline activated by the Land Transportation Office (LTO), and if you chance upon vehicles that are illegally using sirens and blinkers, the agency wants you to report the violator by sending a text message to the hotline.

This is in line with Administrative Order No. 18 issued by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Entitled ‘Prohitibing government officials and personnel from using sirens, blinkers, and other similar signaling or flashing devices,’ it reiterates the strict implementation of the ‘wang-wang’ ban, particularly among public officials. The ban was never lifted to begin with, but you may have noticed the proliferation of vehicles using sirens and blinkers, not to mention escorted convoys barrelling through Metro Manila gridlock.

Who can and cannot use sirens and blinkers?

PHOTO BY Shutterstock

AO No. 18 stresses that signaling or flashing devices may only be used “under exigent or emergency circumstances or situations or to ensure the expedient and safe passage of emergency responders.” Only the following vehicles may use them:

1. Official motor vehicles of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)
2. Official motor vehicles of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI)
3. Official motor vehicles of the Philippine National Police (PNP)
4. Fire trucks
5. Hospital ambulances
6. Other emergency vehicles

Government officials and personnel are prohibited from using wang-wang on their vehicles, and the use of signals and blinkers on private vehicles is also illegal.

“Unauthorized and improper use of signaling or flashing devices by government officials and employees shall be dealt with in accordance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations,” reads the directive.

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‘Aksyon on the Spot’ hotline

Aside from illegal wang-wang users, other traffic violators and online scammers impersonating the LTO and sending fake traffic violation notices with phishing links may also be reported to the hotline. The LTO also announced that it will distribute ‘Akyon on the Spot’ stickers bearing a QR code that will provide motorists access to platforms where they can report violators or scammers and formally lodge complaints.

Again, here is the number for your reference: 0929 292 0865.