(PIA-NCR file)
MANILA, (PIA) -- In a move aimed at preventing abuse and improving transparency, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has issued a directive tightening regulations on the issuance of low-numbered or "protocol" license plates to government officials.
Executive Order No. 56, dated March 25, 2024 and published by the Official Gazette on Thursday, April 11, comes amid growing public concern over the proliferation of protocol plates, which grant vehicles special privileges on the road, including the exemption from the number coding scheme.
"This executive order aims to promote a more transparent and accountable system for the issuance of protocol license plates," the order said.
"It ensures these privileges are used appropriately by a designated group of officials for legitimate purposes," it added.
The EO cites complaints that unauthorized use of these plates undermines public safety and weakens trust in the government.
The new guidelines limit the number of officials eligible for protocol plates.
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Previously, a wider range of government personnel qualified. Now, only high-ranking officials like Cabinet secretaries, senators, and justices of the Supreme Court are automatically authorized. Lower-ranking officials may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
The EO also restricts the number of protocol plates each official can have. Most are limited to two pairs, with a maximum of three for the President, Vice President, and congressional leaders.
Additionally, the plates are only valid during an official's term and must be surrendered upon leaving public office.
President Marcos directed the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Land Transportation Office (LTO) to develop a registry of all issued protocol plates.
The EO also mandates the creation of implementing guidelines within 30 days, outlining the application, approval, and confiscation processes for the plates.
The order revokes all previously issued protocol plates except those belonging to currently authorized officials.
The LTO will work with other agencies to confiscate any expired plates still in circulation. (PIA-NCR)
