The Philippine National Police (PNP) has launched an internal investigation after a photo of an unplated patrol car driving along Commonwealth Avenue circulated on social media, officials said Wednesday.

PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. confirmed in a statement that the vehicle belongs to the Police Security and Protection Group and is duly registered in government records.

Nonetheless, its operation must comply with existing requirements governing vehicle identification and the proper display of license plates, Nartatez said.

The concerned unit and personnel have been identified, and an internal investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Nartatez added that any administrative lapse or rule violation established by the probe will be addressed in accordance with internal regulations and due process.