If you recall, there were hundreds of prank calls on the first day that the 911 national emergency hotline number became operational. To be exact, there were 304 prank calls within the first seven hours.
READ: Day No. 1 of 911: Hotline gets hundreds of prank calls
Apprently, we’re not the only ones who were incensed by the gall of some people to mess with a very serious matter.
Citing the 911 experience, Muntinlupa Rep. Ruffy Biazon has filed House Bill (HB) 2323 or the “Anti-Prank Caller Act,” which seeks to impose fines and jail time on prank callers.
“This bill penalizes prank calling to protect the integrity and proper operation of emergency hotlines. These should not be burdened by irresponsible and senseless acts of mischief-makers,” Biazon said.
As reported in the Manila Bulletin, the following are the penalties for prank callers:
1st-time offenders – 1 to 30 days in jail + PHP5,000 fine
2nd-time offenders – 1 month to 6 months in jail + PHP15,000 fine
3rd-time offenders – 6 months to 6 years in jail + PHP30,000 fine
4th-time and subsequent offenders – 6 to 12 years in jail + PHP50,000 fine
Now, if only they can catch all those prank callers.
