HPG backs unauthorized impounded vehicles use ban

The Highway Patrol Group (HPG) on Monday reiterated its strict prohibition against the unauthorized use, transfer, or tampering of impounded and recovered stolen vehicles, warning that violators will face administrative and criminal charges.

The reminder follows concerns raised during a Senate Committee on Public Services hearing regarding allegations that officers have held recovered stolen vehicles for extended periods and used them for personal travel instead of returning them to legitimate owners.

In response to the scrutiny, the HPG conducted a physical inspection and audit of recovered vehicles at the Laperal Compound impounding area in Laguna on 30 October.

Officials said the inventory aimed to verify vehicle conditions, update records, and prevent the unauthorized removal or cannibalization of parts.

HPG director Brig. Gen. Joyce Patrick Sangalang stressed that using recovered vehicles for personal benefit is strictly prohibited under PNP Memorandum 2025-049, which governs the disposition of stolen and impounded motor vehicles.

“The HPG remains committed to ensuring that recovered vehicles are treated as property under lawful police custody — not as personal property or privileges of any police personnel,” said Sangalang.