PNP: Convoy caught using Edsa busway carrying 鈥榮enior officers鈥�
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) said that the convoy caught by traffic enforcers for using the exclusive bus lane along Epifanio Delos Santos Avenue (Edsa) on Tuesday evening was carrying “senior officers.”
Security personnel reportedly said the convoy carried PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Marbil.
However, in a message to reporters on Wednesday early morning, PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo said, “For security reasons, we cannot divulge the identities of those in the convoy. What we can confirm is that these are senior officers holding sensitive positions.”
READ: Vehicles owned by Pacquiao, PNP among Edsa busway violators
“This convoy was headed to Camp Crame because there is a closed-door meeting that requires the urgent presence of these officers,” she explained.
Fajardo later added that the meeting regarded an “ongoing security operation.”
Article continues after this advertisementThe DOTr previously said the Edsa busway was limited to the use of public utility buses, emergency vehicles and clearly-marked government vehicles.
Article continues after this advertisementHowever, the enforcers on the scene did not accept the convoy’s explanation, Fajardo said.
“Although, we have said that there are guidelines for when it’s urgent or an emergency in nature for PNP officers,” she said.
“The convoy no longer argued with the enforcers and made a deal with them to allow them to first take the officers to Camp Crame then come back to get the ticket intended for their supposed violation,” she detailed.
Further, according to the PNP spokesperson, the convoy’s motorcycle escorts stayed behind as a sign of their intention not to evade the authorities.
She added that they would be explaining the incident to the DOTr.
“We understand the comments coming out about what happened. That’s why, we say that the PNP is the first to respect the policies we implement relating to traffic rules,” Fajardo said.
“It so happened that this particular incident necessitates the usage of the carousel lane,” she justified.
