THE Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) announced on Sunday that it is investigating the alleged production of counterfeit protocol license plates bearing the number “8,” often associated with vehicles belonging to members of the House of Representatives.
This investigation follows a viral road rage video featuring an SUV displaying such a plate, prompting House Secretary General Reginald Velasco to declare the plate likely fraudulent.
PNP-HPG spokesperson Police Lieutenant Nadame Malang confirmed the ongoing investigation during a Super Radyo dzBB interview, stating that HPG intelligence officers are verifying information related to the production of these fake plates. Malang indicated that further information will be released upon completion of the investigation.
Secretary Velasco strongly condemned the misuse of the protocol plate in the video, emphasizing that using a fake special plate is illegal and punishable under existing laws.
He highlighted the seriousness of the offense, stating that it undermines the integrity of official markings and erodes public trust.
Velasco noted apparent discrepancies in the plate’s security features, suggesting its authenticity is easily verifiable by law enforcement. He urged authorities to swiftly investigate and prosecute the individual responsible.
