Even the chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) could not help but shake his head in disappointment after watching the viral video of the road crash involving a police coaster after trying to enter the bus lane along EDSA.

For PNP chief, Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr., common sense on road courtesy and discipline dictates that it is not right to engage in dangerous maneuvers as well as traversing a lane intended for passenger buses.

“Clearly, it shows the state of discipline over our drivers. Imagine you would enter a bus lane when you are not supposed to be there,” said Nartatez.

“The marked vehicle is a symbol of service, not a VIP pass,” he stressed.

Based on initial investigation, the PNP-marked Toyota Coaster under the Libreng Sakay program and a civilian bus collided along EDSA northbound near Main Avenue, Barangay Socorro in Quezon City on April 17.

Although the collision only caused minor property damage with no injuries reported, Nartatez directed an administrative review to determine the circumstances of the incident and check if proper protocols were followed.

But he made it clear that corrective measures must be implemented to prevent the repeat of such an embarrassing incident.

“So I remind and I am asking the concerned directorial staff to issue the corresponding reminders and to ensure that corrective measures, whether it be punishment, be served to that erring personnel,” said Nartatez.

He then reiterated the PNP’s commitment to professionalism, discipline, and accountability, saying appropriate actions will be taken based on the findings.

“We are working hard to professionalize the ranks, and incidents like this pull us back. We understand the public concern and we will ensure accountability,” Nartatez emphasized.