Marbil told: Explain EDSA busway violation

MANILA, Philippines — Police chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil should shed light on a police convoy that entered the exclusive EDSA busway, according to Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla.

“I will ask him. It is news to me that it happened. I have to confirm with him. Then I will ask for an explanation about what happened,” Remulla said yesterday at a press briefing at Malacañang.

In an interview with dzBB, Marbil said the convoy had to attend an emergency closed-door meeting for a major police operation. Traffic enforcers said the convoy belonged to the “PNP chief,” but Marbil said it was transporting “senior police officials” whom he did not identify.

“Marbil was aware of the operations... I asked him to appear so whatever was his methodology to go there... Let me make it clear: I did not give instructions to violate any traffic laws to get there. But he was aware of the emergency,” Remulla said.

Marbil and Remulla were referring to the rescue of a Chinese student kidnapped on Feb. 20 by a Chinese syndicate involved in Philippine offshore gaming operations.

The 14-year-old boy was found abandoned on Tuesday in Parañaque. Police said no ransom was paid.

Remulla said the Philippine National Police (PNP) had a “firm” agreement with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority on a zero-tolerance policy for traffic offenses.

Violations of the EDSA busway policy committed by police personnel will be investigated, Remulla said.

Only city buses, emergency vehicles and convoys of the President, Vice President, Senate President, House Speaker and Chief Justice are allowed to use the EDSA bus lane.

Violators face fines of up to P30,000 and revocation of their driver’s license.

PNP vehicles can use the busway in emergencies, Marbil noted, citing a Department of Transportation memorandum.