PNP reviewing VIP escort protocols

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police is reviewing its guidelines on VIP convoy movements to ensure that police escorts follow rules on courtesy and refrain from intimidating or inconveniencing motorists, acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said yesterday.

According to Nartatez, police are tightening measures to guarantee that police escort duties are carried out with respect for road users.

“While the safety of those the police are assigned to secure is a top priority, this should be done in a manner that will not cause inconvenience to motorists and compromise safety of all road users,” Nartatez said.

He reminded police escorts to follow guidelines that put safety and courtesy first.

“Our police escorts are trained to clear routes without endangering or disrespecting motorists. It is not part of the protocol to shove, shout or show rude behavior. Our principle is courtesy, safety and discipline at all times,” Nartatez said.

He directed the Police Security Protection Group to look into reports of PSPG escorts aggressively clearing motorists to give way to VIP convoys.

Senate President Vicente Sotto III earlier urged the PNP to regularly train PSPG escorts to remain polite and respectful during VIP movements.

In the Senate deliberations on the 2026 budgets of the PNP and Department of the Interior and Local Government, Sotto said he had experienced police escorts aggressively forcing motorists aside even with his “7” protocol plate, noting that ordinary motorists experience worse treatment.

Nartatez said police are checking if formal complaints have been filed.

The PNP takes Sotto’s concern seriously, he said.

“If there are such incidents, we will look into these and make sure our escort personnel treat motorists properly,” Nartatez said.

The PNP is also conducting a refresher briefing for police escorts on the proper use of sirens and blinkers, limits of authority when clearing traffic and expected conduct during movements.

The PNP will issue a memorandum reminding police escorts that intimidation, harassment or use of unnecessary force against motorists is prohibited.

“We regularly review the performance and assignment of our escort personnel. Because this concern was raised, we will conduct another round of assessment and refresher training. We want to ensure that those given escort duty are professional, courteous and follow the protocols, especially on public roads,” Nartatez said.

He assured the public that the welfare of motorists remains a priority in PNP operations.