In a recent development, the Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) has taken action against three of its officers for improperly using the EDSA busway. The officers were also accused of ordering a halt to traffic enforcement operations. This incident, which occurred around 7:45 a.m. on February 7 near the Ortigas Northbound Flyover, involved two vehicles and two HPG motorcycles that were stopped for violating busway regulations.
Lt. Nadame Malang, the spokesperson for PNP-HPG, confirmed the suspension of the officers during a phone interview with the media. He did not disclose the names or ranks of the involved personnel, citing an ongoing investigation and potential administrative charges. HPG director Brig. Gen. Eleazar Matta has ordered a comprehensive probe into the matter, emphasizing that such misconduct will not be tolerated under his leadership.
A viral video surfaced showing an HPG officer claiming that PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil had requested the suspension of operations due to traffic congestion. However, the PNP-HPG issued a statement clarifying that Chief Marbil was not involved in the incident and that his name was wrongly linked to the matter.
The PNP-HPG stressed its commitment to maintaining high standards and integrity within the force. They described the incident as unfortunate and isolated, promising to implement strict measures to prevent future occurrences. The group also made it clear that they have no intention of interfering with the Department of Transportation’s Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation (SAICT) or dictating its operatives’ actions.
According to the SAICT report, one of the officers involved reacted aggressively and verbally confronted an SAICT enforcer while being issued a ticket for the violation.