Vice President Sara Duterte in a file photo dated August 7, 2023 (Taken from Inday Sara Duterte’s Facebook account)
MANILA, Philippines — Quezon City Police District (QCPD) on Friday apologized to Office of the Vice President (OVP) after it was dragged into the recent traffic disruption along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon city.
On Thursday, a video implying that a police officer from QCPD halted the traffic flow in the highway, because Vice President (VP) Sara Duterte would supposedly be passing through, went viral.
QCPD addressed the misconception in a press release, and apologized to OVP.
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“In particular, we extend our apologies to the Office of the Vice-President for any unintended association with this matter, as the VP was not the subject of the security measures taken during that time,” QCPD Director Brigadier General Redrico Maranan said.
“We understand the importance of upholding the dignity and reputation of our public officials,” he emphasized.
Duterte was in Agusan del Norte when the incident happened.
QCPD clarified politics has nothing to do with the issue.
“Traffic management is an essential part of the security measures we provide for VIPs, including diplomats, elected government officials, state guests, and other personalities whose movements require the utmost security,” Maranan said.
“It is crucial to emphasize that our approach to simple traffic management should remain free from political influence,” he explained.
QCPD earlier said the cop involved, identified as Police Executive Master Sergeant Verdo Pantollano, just mistakenly heard from a co-officer that the VP will be arriving in the area.
This wrong impression prompted him to clear the area of vehicles.
The district acknowledged the policeman’s action may have caused inconvenience among motorists and a misunderstanding in the eyes of the public.
“Your QCPD sincerely apologizes for any inconvenience and confusion brought on by the situation,” it said.