The Philippine National Police (PNP) denied that the convoy apprehended by the Special Action and Intelligence Committee on Transportation (SAICT) belonged to PNP Chief, Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil.
According to Police Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo, spokesperson and Police Regional Office 3 director, the convoy was carrying a high-ranking PNP official handling a sensitive position. However, the police chose not to disclose the official’s identity due to security reasons.
Amid public scrutiny, PNP Chief Marbil defended the convoy’s use of the EDSA Busway, stating it was due to an emergency. He explained that senior officers needed to attend a closed-door meeting in Camp Crame for a critical operation.
Marbil also acknowledged the DOTr-SAICT personnel who stopped the convoy, emphasizing that the PNP respects their authority.
Meanwhile, PNP-PIO Chief Col. Randulf Tuaño said in a press briefing that the PNP plans to coordinate with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) regarding emergency use of the busway. He stressed the need for clearer enforcement guidelines, especially in urgent situations.
“As far as we know, the PNP is allowed to use the busway during emergencies, but we want to clarify the process to avoid future conflicts,” Tuaño said.
The incident has sparked public debate over whether the convoy’s busway access was justified or an abuse of privilege. The PNP aims to resolve the issue through discussions with DOTr officials.
