Quezon City Police District Director P/Brig.Gen. Red Maranan on Friday apologized anew over a viral video involving a traffic disruption along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City allegedly to give way for the convoy of Vice President Sara Duterte.
"The QCPD would like to address recent developments concerning traffic management and its implications which have raised concerns and misconceptions among the public," Maranan in a statement sent to the media said.
"Traffic management is an essential part of the security measures we provide for VIPs, including diplomats, elected government officials, state guests, and other personalities whose movements require the utmost security. It is crucial to emphasize that our approach to simple traffic management should remain free from political influence," Maranan explained.
"The QCPD would like to clarify that the recent traffic management operation was not, in any manner, related to politics. However, we acknowledge that there may have been inconvenience and misunderstandings caused to the public during this incident. Your QCPD sincerely apologizes for any inconvenience and confusion brought on by the situation," he further explained.
Aside from the motorists and commuters affected by the incident, Maranan also gave his apology to the Vice President.
"In particular, we extend our apologies to the Office of the Vice President for any unintended association with this matter, as the VP was not the subject of the security measures taken during that time," he said.
"We understand the importance of upholding the dignity and reputation of our public officials. Our commitment remains unwavering in ensuring the safety and security of all individuals under our protection, regardless of their status. We will continue to strive for transparency and professionalism in our operations," Maranan stressed.
The viral video came out Thursday night shared by former Bayan Muna Partylist solon Teddy Casiño that made the rounds on social media.
The Office of the Vice President said the viral video was a piece of injurious information purely grounded in falsity.
"The Vice President did not ask the QCPD and will never ask government agencies, including law enforcement bodies, to carry out actions that would inconvenience the public or cause them harm," the OVP, in a statement, said.
The OVP earlier requested the QCPD to conduct an investigation and hold all those responsible accountable for their actions, including the liability of the person who took the video and maliciously appended the traffic stop to the Vice President.
A check showed Duterte had no engagement in the area. She had been in Mindanao since Monday for the celebration of World Teachers Day and other activities.
The policeman, identified as Sgt. Verdo Pantallano, was said to have mistakenly heard "VP"; hence, he decided to clear the traffic as a sign of courtesy and security.
Pantallano too apologized for his mistake.
"Please forgive me. I thought it was because of a VIP (very important person)," he was quoted as saying in Filipino.