PNP probes busway incident ‘overshadowing’

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is verifying the authenticity of a leaked internal memorandum that allegedly detailed strategies to “overshadow” a ticketing incident involving a police convoy on the Epifanio Delos Santos Avenue (EDSA) busway.

In a statement Thursday, the PNP maintained its commitment to “the highest standards of transparency, accountability, and integrity.”

“We are aware of reports circulating regarding an alleged leaked memorandum and are currently conducting an internal verification process to determine its authenticity and context,” the PNP said.

To recall, the PNP convoy was stopped by authorities on the EDSA busway Tuesday evening for unauthorized use of the exclusive lane. PNP chief Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil was mentioned in connection with the convoy.

Following the incident, the alleged memorandum surfaced online, prompting an internal investigation into the leak.

The PNP said it “does not condone any attempts to manipulate public perception or divert attention from matters of public concern.”

“We remain committed to accountability and due process in addressing any infractions involving our personnel,” the statement added.

The leaked memo, purportedly from the Directorate for Police Community Relations (DPCR), outlines a strategic messaging plan aimed at the Department of Transportation’s Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation (SAICT), other government officials, the public, and the media. The alleged objective was “to prevent the issue from generating further negative sentiments” for the PNP chief and the organization.

It also reportedly designated the PNP Public Information Office as the sole authorized unit to comment on the matter and directed regional offices to “amplify” operational accomplishments to “further overshadow the issue.”

The PNP has neither confirmed nor denied the authenticity of the memo.

On Wednesday, PNP spokesperson BGen. Jean Fajardo defended the convoy’s use of the EDSA busway, citing emergency protocols. She said the convoy was carrying “senior officers” needed at Camp Crame for a “closed-door meeting regarding an ongoing security operation.”

In a separate radio interview, Marbil declined to name the officers or confirm his presence in the convoy, citing security concerns after the vehicle plate numbers were made public.

Meantime, Malacañang warned against abuse of the EDSA busway exemption following public criticism of the PNP incident.

Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said Malacañang will not tolerate abusive behavior and reminded officials that the busway should only be used in verified emergencies.

Castro clarified that “emergency meetings” do not qualify for the exemption.

“Emergency meeting is not included in the exemption. If there is an emergency meeting, it is better for them to leave their house early,” Castro said.

Earlier, Marbil had cited an “emergency meeting” as the reason for the convoy’s use of the busway.

However, Castro reiterated that abuse will not be tolerated and that stricter penalties may be considered for violators, especially public servants.

“If there is abuse, they will be held accountable,” Castro said.