4 cops scolded for ignoring commuters

MANILA, Philippines - Philippine National Police chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa said yesterday he reprimanded four Highway Patrol Group (HPG) police officers who refused to assist two taxi passengers.

Dela Rosa said he is apologizing to siblings Janine and Jeffrey Reyes, who asked for help from the police officers when the taxi driver wanted to charge them P3,600 for a trip from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport to the bus terminal in Cubao, Quezon City.

The four police officers, whose identities were not disclosed, were deployed at the Araneta Center in Cubao.

“I take full responsibility for their misdeeds, being the Chief PNP,” he said.

Dela Rosa said he gave the four police officers a dressing down when they reported to his office a few days ago to explain their side.

He said they admitted to falling short on their duty.

In a Facebook post dated Sept. 18, Janine said the barker rode in the front passenger seat and the driver wanted them to pay P3,600 as they were on their way to the terminal. She said they agreed, for fear they would be harmed.

When she approached the lawmen, the taxi driver and barker unloaded their belongings and sped away.

Dela Rosa said the police officers should have chased the taxi and made them explain the overcharging accusation.