BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The Baguio City Police Office is preparing possible assault charges against a taxi driver who was caught on video trying to hit and run over a police officer in a bid to dodge a traffic violation ticket on New Year’s Eve.
Video footage shows the taxi moving forward several times to chase Patrolman Julius Walang, who blocked its way along Abanao Street that leads up to the BCPO and Baguio City Hall.
Walang could be seen gripping tightly on the taxi’s hood as it briefly accelerated.
Police said taxi driver has been identified and had failed a breathalyzer test suggesting he may have been intoxicated during the incident, Police Col. Allan Rae Co said.
Co, however, said the police were ordered to release the cabbie by an unnamed judge who said the driver’s offenses merited payment of a fine, not detention.
Mayor Benjamin Magalong ordered an investigation of the incident, said the city government’s public information office. The mayor also asked that the judge be included in the probe.