MMDA warns emergency vehicles to stay in line

An official of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Thursday called on drivers of emergency vehicles not to abuse their privileges and to follow traffic rules when not responding to an actual emergency.

Atty. Victor Nuñez, Director of the MMDA Traffic Enforcement Group, made the appeal as the agency prepares for the dry run of the EDSA odd-even scheme on 16 June.

“We are appealing to emergency vehicles that if there is no emergency follow traffic rules and don’t abuse the privilege given by the government,” said Nuñez.

He clarified that emergency vehicles — such as ambulances, fire trucks, and police vehicles — will remain exempt from the Non-Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP). However, this exemption must be used responsibly.

“I would like also to clarify regarding the issue of non-contact apprehension policy (NCAP) about emergency vehicles, we want to inform the public that all emergency vehicles, ambulances, firetrucks and vehicles used by the police are exempted,” said Nuñez.

He said it is difficult for them to apply the exemption automatically, especially with some VIP private vehicles abusing "wang-wang" privileges.

Nuñez also raised concerns over funeral service vehicles marked as ambulances but used to fetch cadavers.

“There are vehicles that have ambulance markings but they are operated by funeral services... to fetch cadavers. So we have to validate kung yung may mark na ambulance [na] may mga 'wang-wang' ay talagang totoo at legit na ambulance,” said Nunez.

Meanwhile, MMDA Special Operations Group–Strike Force (SOG-SF) Head Gabriel Go reminded motorists that courtesy is extended to private vehicles and agency partners, including volunteer and emergency responder groups, to ensure their work is not hampered.

The MMDA said the odd-even scheme dry run will last for one month. Results from the pilot phase will be evaluated to determine whether adjustments are necessary.