House calls on members to stop using ‘8’ car plates

MANILA, Philippines — The House of Representatives has called out anew its members who are using protocol plates bearing the number “8,” saying these plates are not considered legitimate and authorized.

House Secretary General Reginald Velasco has reiterated that these plates are not authorized, as the 19th Congress
 under the leadership of Speaker Martin Romualdez has not issued the use of the plates.

“These plates hold no official sanction from the House and are not to be considered legitimate,” he noted.

In a memorandum dated Nov. 16, 2023, Velasco ordered the “immediate recall of all expired Protocol Plates No. 8 issued during the past Congresses.”

He added that the chamber has an existing agreement with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, wherein drivers found using plates with the number “8” will be apprehended and such plates will be confiscated.

The official stressed that the unauthorized and illegal use of special plates is a matter that should not be tolerated, as it “poses a threat to public safety and undermines the integrity of the vehicle registration system.”

“We urge all individuals to comply with the law and refrain from engaging in such activities… We expect all members to uphold the highest standards of integrity and adherence to the law,” he said.

Velasco added the House remains committed to ensuring “accountability and transparency” within the chamber.