Model regrets using cop’s calling card

MANILA, Philippines - A model for a men’s magazine has apologized to a ranking official of the Philippine National Police (PNP) after she bragged on social media that she got away with a traffic violation because of their supposed ties.

“I would like to apologize to everyone who was affected and offended by my post, fellow motorists, Director Alexander Ignacio and his family and the PNP institution as a whole,” Alyzza Agustin said in a Facebook post late Tuesday.

Ignacio is chief of the PNP Directorate for Plans.

“I was just overwhelmed by that moment because I was caught in traffic for hours coming from work. I would like to make it clear that I do not know Director Ignacio personally,” she added.

Various websites were able to screenshot the apology before it was deleted shortly after it was posted in her Facebook page.

Agustin said she meant no harm in her post and that, like other motorists, she just wanted a “little convenience on the road.”

Screenshots of the model’s controversial post went viral late Monday night, irking netizens who criticized her for using Ignacio’s calling card that let her off the hook for violating traffic rules.

“I got apprehended again because of coding, but because of you, Boss Alex, no more apprehension. Thank you so much for your very useful card with matching dedication,” Agustin said in an earlier Facebook post.

She even attached a photo of the PNP official’s calling card.

At the back of the card was a message saying, “Please assist my EA, Alyzza Agustin.”

Ignacio – who is in Malaysia for a conference – denied knowing Agustin.

He said there is no executive assistant position in his office.

“I am a chief superintendent (one star rank) and not a director (two stars),” he was quoted as saying in an ABS-CBN News report.

“I will not tolerate the use of my business card, the facilities of my office or the privileges of my rank for unlawful purposes,” Ignacio added. – With Cecille Suerte Felipe