2 Manila cops sacked for blocking motorists

MANILA, Philippines — Two members of the Manila Police District (MPD) have been relieved from their posts after a viral video showed them in a patrol car blocking motorists at a traffic light along Taft Avenue.

Ermita police station 5 commander Alfonso Saligumba III said the incident, which occurred on Wednesday afternoon, remains under investigation as authorities are reviewing closed-circuit television footage (CCTV) and the explanation of the police officers involved.

“They claimed that the patrol vehicle encountered trouble. The investigation and validation of CCTV footage as well as the statement of witnesses are ongoing to determine what really happened,” Saligumba said at a press briefing at Camp Crame.

The policemen were on routine patrol when the incident occurred.

The license of the driver was confiscated by the Land Transportation Office, while the police car is undergoing mechanical inspection.

Saligumba said the police officers have submitted written explanations and may face administrative cases for serious neglect of duty, depending on the probe’s outcome.

Saligumba added that the policemen have no prior administrative cases and were previously assessed as “orderly MPD personnel.”

“We remain committed to due process and to ensuring that conclusions are based on verified facts. If violations are established, the police personnel involved will be held accountable,” Saligumba said.

The MPD, in a statement, said it does not tolerate violations of traffic laws or police operational procedures and assured the public of transparency and accountability. –  Josiah Antonio