Ban them all

After several vehicles with license plates bearing the number "8" were found parked at a cybersex den in Pasay City this month, House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez has ordered the recall of all number "8" license plates issued during the 16th Congress and earlier. Why would a distinguished gentleman's vehicle, denoted by his number "8" plate, one of them a Jaguar no less, be found at a cybersex den? Are there laws to be crafted in such a place? To even flaunt the license plate at a place like that defies logic, even common sense.

I totally agree with the recall. We all know the abuses these vehicles with low number bearing plates commit on a daily basis. They feel they can park anywhere. They are not usually subject to traffic rules and regulations, because they have the "8" plate. They sometimes do not even settle parking fees at designated places. They get the best spots at malls, restaurants, other venues. All the perks and privileges of the entitled member of Congress, made available by a simple number "8". Yes, recall them all. I would even go as far as saying that the number "8" plate be banned even for members of the current 17th Congress. What exactly is the purpose of having a low-numbered plate anyway, than to abuse it? I thought these lawmakers are supposed to serve their constituents, not the other way around.

I can understand the President and Vice-President having their respective low-numbered plates. Other than that, there really is no need to let everyone know that a Senator, Congressman, even a judge and an undersecretary is on the road. Are we expected to give way, offer courtesy, when they are probably just on their way to some non-official destination or even a sex den? Filipinos really have a bad habit of flaunting power. The number "8" plate is the best example of that bad habit. As if that particular number is the be all of everything for a vehicle and its owner or occupants.

While we're on the subject, I have to say that some vehicles have also gone back to using sirens and flashing lights to gain an advantage on the road, something the past administration tried so hard to prohibit. Since we have new powers-that-be, is this habit making a comeback as well? I hope not. Traffic is already bad without these "wannabee VIPs" bullying their way on the road, not to mention those who really feel like gods nowadays.