PNP Justifies Use of EDSA Busway for Urgent Meeting
ROMMEL MARBIL – The chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) defended the use of the EDSA busway by a police convoy on Tuesday evening, citing an emergency that required the immediate presence of senior police officials at Camp Crame.
Marbil explained that an urgent closed-door meeting was held, making it necessary for high-ranking officers to reach Camp Crame quickly. He also mentioned that Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla would provide further details regarding the operation conducted that night.
“Kahapon kasi there is an emergency and there is an issue that we have to resolve, kaya aya the SILG will announce ‘yung accomplishment kagabi. Kailangan ‘yung presensiya ng pulis namin na higher ups kasi nga nag-closed door meeting and something happened sa operation last night,” Marbil said.
Despite the situation, Marbil emphasized that they respect the Department of Transportation-Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation (DOTr-SAICT), which flagged the convoy. He reminded police officers to accept any penalties when caught violating traffic rules. “Ang sinasabi ko nga sa PNP natin, itong SAICT they are just doing their job, we have to respect the. Ang pulis pag nahuli, get the ticket. Lahat kami we are just doing our job,” he added.
PNP spokesperson Brigadier General Jean Fajardo also defended the convoy, stating that police officers are allowed to use the busway in emergency situations. “Meron naman po doon sa guidelines na kapag ang mga PNP officers ay urgent and emergency in nature ay pupuwede naman pong dumaan po,” Fajardo explained.
She further clarified that the convoy did not argue with authorities and simply requested to proceed to Camp Crame. Afterward, they returned to claim the traffic violation ticket.
When asked about the identities of the senior officials in the convoy, Fajardo declined to disclose their names for security reasons. She acknowledged that the vehicles’ license plates had already been revealed in online videos but stressed that ensuring the officers’ safety remains a priority.
The EDSA busway is a dedicated lane for public buses, emergency vehicles, and top government officials. The DOTr previously clarified that only select vehicles, such as ambulances, fire trucks, and authorized police units, are permitted to use it.