Military vehicle gets stalled near Malacañang

CAMP AQUINO, Philippines– A military vehicle on a logistics run malfunctioned near Malacañang early Friday, which allegedly stirred rumors of a coup.

“This Simba armored personnel carrier (APC) always has mechanical problems. It had engine problems so it really had to stop,” Armed Forces Northern Luzon Command (Nolcom) chief Major General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr.  told reporters here.

The vehicle came from Nolcom in Tarlac and was on its way to Sangley Point in Cavite, a military naval base.

“You know, those Simbas are older than the driver,” he said in jest.

Major Emmanuel Garcia, commander of the AFP’s 1st Civil Relations Group, said the vehicle was part of a convoy transporting assorted ammunition.

“It left Nolcom for Sangley, and got stuck at about 4 a.m. near Pureza Street in Sta. Mesa. The nearest route was via Sta. Mesa,” he told reporters.

Logistics run is made for transport of ammunition for resupply or transfer. He said the ammunition could possibly be transferred to Zamboanga City.

The convoy was composed of 2 APCs and 11 M35 trucks.

The junior officer also allayed fears of a coup. “There is no such thing. There is no issue,” he said.

The vehicle was hauled by a tow truck at about 10 a.m. and was brought to Fort Bonifacio.