Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson issued a strong call on Friday, February 13, 2026, for heightened random inspections of ambulances suspected of conducting fake emergency runs, with a particular focus on rush hour periods. Lacson emphasized that authorities must take decisive action against drivers who misuse sirens without having any emergency patients on board.
Urgent Action Against Misuse
In a post on X, Lacson stated, "More random checks on siren-blaring 'ambulances,' especially during rush hours, should be conducted. Drivers of vehicles with no emergency patients must be apprehended, their licenses revoked, and charged, if warranted." He highlighted that improperly used emergency vehicles are not only disruptive but also pose significant risks to motorists and commuters, adding, "Aside from being annoying, they can be traffic hazards."
Recent Incident Sparks Concern
This call for action follows a recent incident where the Department of Transportation's Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation intercepted an ambulance using the Edsa Busway near Santolan Station in Quezon City. Authorities discovered that the vehicle was not responding to an emergency but was instead transporting passengers for routine hospital checkups. The Edsa Busway is reserved exclusively for public utility buses, and unauthorized vehicles are strictly barred from entry.
Historical Context and Proposals
Lacson has a history of advocating for measures to curb busway abuse. Previously, he proposed initiatives such as reversing the direction of buses in the exclusive lane during peak hours to deter illegal entry by private vehicles. This latest statement reinforces his ongoing commitment to improving traffic safety and enforcing regulations on road usage.
