PNP to review VIP convoy to prevent abuse of power
Only nine officials, including the President, Vice President, Senate President, House Speaker, Supreme Court Chief Justice, and select Cabinet secretaries, are authorized to have police escorts.
Daily TribuneOnly nine officials, including the President, Vice President, Senate President, House Speaker, Supreme Court Chief Justice, and select Cabinet secretaries, are authorized to have police escorts.
The Philippine National Police (PNP), led by Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., has ordered a review of security protocols for VIP convoy movements to ensure adherence to road courtesy and protect motorists from undue inconvenience.
According to the acting PNP chief, measures are being strengthened to guarantee escort duties are carried out professionally and without intimidation.
“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 or compromise the safety of all road users,” Nartatez said.
He emphasized that escorts are trained to clear routes safely and courteously, and that intimidation or aggressive behavior toward regular motorists is not part of the protocol.
“We have clear Standard Operating Procedures. Our escorts are trained to clear routes without endangering or disrespecting motorists. Courtesy, safety, and discipline are expected at all times,” Nartatez added.
The acting chief directed the Police Security Protection Group (PSPG) to review reports of alleged aggressive behavior by police escorts.
Last week, Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III urged the PNP to remind PSPG personnel to remain respectful during VIP movements. During the 2026 budget deliberations for the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the PNP, Sotto said police escorts often drive motorists aside aggressively and use sirens excessively, which causes frustration and unfair treatment on the road.
Currently, only nine types of officials are authorized to have police escorts, including the President, Vice President, Senate President, House Speaker, Supreme Court Chief Justice, and select Cabinet secretaries in sensitive positions.
“As of now, we are still checking if there are formal complaints filed regarding such incidents. But we take Senator Sotto’s concern seriously. If there is such an incident, we will investigate immediately and ensure escort personnel treat motorists properly,” Nartatez said.
He also directed a nationwide refresher briefing for all escort units to review rules on siren and blinker use, limits of authority when clearing traffic, and expected conduct during VIP movements. A memorandum will also remind all units that intimidation, harassment, or unnecessary force against motorists is strictly prohibited.
“We regularly review the performance and assignment of our escort personnel. Because this concern came out, we will conduct another round of assessment and refresher training. We want to ensure those on escort duty are professional, courteous, and follow proper protocol,” Nartatez said, assuring the public that motorists’ safety and rights remain a top priority.