Escudero sorry for viral incident on Edsa busway
Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero—Senate PRIB
Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero on Friday admitted a protocol license plate issued to his office was attached to the sport utility vehicle that sped away after it was flagged down by traffic enforcers for illegally using the Edsa busway.
The veteran lawmaker, however, did not say if he was the registered owner of the black Toyota Land Cruiser that had the special vehicle plate “7” issued to senators.
READ: Chiz opens up on Edsa bus lane breach, says sorry
Escudero acknowledged the use of the protocol license plate was “abused” since vehicles bearing such VIP plates were not authorized to enter the Edsa lane exclusively allotted for passenger buses and specific government vehicles.
He said it was not him but a family member, who he did not name, was aboard the luxury vehicle when members of the Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation (SAICT) of the Department of Transportation apprehended it along Edsa’s northbound lane in Pasig City on Thursday.
READ: House SecGen: No authorized special plates for solons
The vehicle reportedly was driven by a male driver who quickly sped off after he handed his driver’s license to a SAICT officer.
“I do not personally use the protocol license plates issued to me and forthwith, the protocol plates involved in the incident will be surrendered to the LTO (Land Transportation Office),” Escudero said in a statement.
‘Oversight’
“I apologize to the public and my colleagues in the Senate for this oversight,” he added.
The incident happened on the heels of President Marcos’ issuance of two separate orders prohibiting public officials and employees from arbitrarily using vehicle sirens and blinkers, and limiting the use of protocol license plates.
According to Escudero, he had already instructed the driver of the vehicle to comply with the LTO’s show-cause order and to face the possible charges against him.
“I commit to ensure that the protocol plates entrusted to me are used appropriately, consistent with the provisions of [the President’s order],” the senator said.
“I commend the authorities for their vigilance and reiterate my support for government efforts to ensure that traffic rules and regulations in Metro Manila are observed by all, regardless of rank, title or position,” he added.
