Drunk driver held for overtaking Aquino convoy

President Benigno S. Aquino III. MALACAÑANG PHOTO BUREAU FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines – Three months after a policeman found himself in hot water for blocking President Benigno Aquino III’s convoy in Quezon City, a drunk motorist was arrested for trying to overtake the vehicle carrying the President in Manila late Wednesday.

The police report read: “Marc Jason Hanopol suddenly swerved out of the line of vehicles which were stopped to allow the presidential convoy to pass, overtook all the other vehicles and stopped right behind the President’s car.”

Hanopol, 24, a medical sales representative from San Isidro, Parañaque City, was driving a Kia Rio (XMN-769) when he encountered the convoy on the southbound lane of Nagtahan Bridge near Malacañang around 11:35 p.m.  The President had just left the Palace after working late to attend a dinner.

Hanopol’s car was immediately blocked by Presidential Security Group vehicles after the convoy cleared the bridge.

Superintendent Luis Francisco Jr., commander of the Manila Police District’s Pandacan station, said the motorist failed an alcohol breath test and would be charged with reckless driving, driving under the influence of alcohol, and obstructing traffic.

Francisco, however, noted that “Hanopol did not pose a threat to the President,” based on an initial investigation.

Speaking to reporters, presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said:   “At no time was the safety of the President in danger but he (Hanopol) was driving recklessly.”

In July, Senior Police Officer 2 Ricardo Pascua of the Quezon City Police District was arrested after he tried to cut in front of Aquino’s vehicle with his van. He was later dismissed from the service.

The President, in a show of modesty and solidarity with Manila motorists who have to endure horrendous traffic, previously ordered his presidential convoys not to use sirens to warn other vehicles to move out of the way.  With a report from AFP