Mar orders MM cops to put checkpoints for vans, taxis

MANILA, Philippines - Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas has ordered the National Capital Region Police Office to set up checkpoints for taxis and commuter vans traveling along major roads in Metro Manila.

Roxas's directive came following spate of crimes involving public utility vehicles.

Reports said there were attempts to abduct children on the streets by men in a white van. The owner of the "van-for-rent" linked to the alleged abduction has surrendered the vehicle to the Manila Police District but the suspects remain at large.

Police Deputy Director General Marcelo Garbo Jr. instructed Philippine National Police personnel to inspect public vans and taxis in the morning, noon and afternoon to help ensure commuters' safety, especially this holiday season.

The police has also acknowledged reports of unscrupulous taxi drivers who spray sleep-inducing chemicals to make female passengers drowsy, making it easier for them to get robbed or even abducted.

Garbo also instructed police officers to be courteous when approaching drivers as well as passengers to prevent unnecessary panic.