3 cops axed for using EDSA Carousel

MANILA, Philippines — Three police personnel who were apprehended for using the EDSA busway last week were relieved from their posts, an official announced yesterday.

The policemen, who are non-commissioned officers, are undergoing investigation, according to Philippine National Police (PNP) public information officer Col. Jean Fajardo.

“They have been identified and sacked from their posts,” Fajardo said in an interview.

Fajardo did not identify the police officers who are assigned with the Police Security and Protection Group and Aviation Security Group.

Traffic enforcers apprehended the police personnel for using the EDSA Carousel, an exclusive lane for commuter buses, on Friday. They were given traffic citation tickets.

According to Fajardo, the police officers were using PNP-marked vehicles when they traveled along the EDSA bus lane.

Fajardo reminded police officers that they can use the busway only during law enforcement operations and when responding to emergencies.

Violators may face administrative sanctions from the PNP.

On Monday, the two-vehicle convoy of former Ilocos Sur governor Chavit Singson was accosted by traffic enforcers for using the EDSA Carousel.

Violators are fined P5,000 for the first offense and P10,000 for the second offense plus suspension of driver’s license for one month.

Third-time offenders will have to pay a fine of P20,000 and their driver’s license suspended for a year. Those caught for the fourth time will merit a fine of P30,000 and revocation of driver’s license.