‘Chiz’ deplores Senate car driver’s traffic offense
“UNACCEPTABLE.”
This was the strong response of Senate President Francis Chiz Escudero to the controversial incident where a Cadillac Escalade SUV displaying the Senate protocol plate “7” was stopped for using a restricted lane, intended solely for authorized vehicles, in a violation of traffic regulations.
Reports indicate that the driver misused the special protocol plate to bypass standard traffic rules, drawing widespread attention.
Escudero maintained the need to know who should be held answerable.
“The driver violated the law. The actions of the driver and passenger are completely unacceptable.” Escudero said.
He further emphasized the need for accountability, urging the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to quickly identify the vehicle’s owner and driver and notify the Senate.
“I urge the LTO to identify the owner-user of the vehicle and to inform the Senate as soon as possible,” Escudero said.
“If indeed the owner is a member of the Senate, I expect him or her to come forward and ensure that the person driving the vehicle responsibly faces the consequences of their actions. As soon as they know and learn of the incident, they should surrender and present themselves to the authorities accordingly.” The senate said.
Escudero also acknowledged the professionalism of Secretariat members Barnachea and Reyno, who were involved in the situation.
“I commend Secretariat Barnachea and Reyno for keeping their composure and remaining courteous, even given the circumstances they encountered,” he added.
The LTO has promised a swift investigation, with further actions anticipated once the vehicle’s owner or driver is fully identified.
Escudero said this incident serves as a reminder that all citizens, including public officials and their associates, are expected to adhere to traffic regulations, ensuring fairness and respect for the law on the nation’s roads.
