A recent incident along the restricted-access EDSA busway has ignited a serious debate. A motorist, who boldly claimed to be the niece of a high-ranking police official, was apprehended for flagrant unauthorized use of the particular bus lane. The situation took a disturbing turn when the motorist, also asserting to hold a military rank, brazenly refused to cooperate with authorities.
The individual in question, identified as “Major Miguel” and purportedly related to Police Maj. Gen. Mario Reyes, head of the Philippine National Police Directorate for Logistics, made headlines after asserting familial ties and military status during the encounter with law enforcement.
However, in a resolute press statement, Maj. Gen. Reyes categorically denied any relation to the motorist, stating, “I want to make it absolutely clear that this person… is not a relative by blood nor by affinity. I have never had any association with her.” He underlined the importance of maintaining the integrity of law enforcement, stating that exploiting a law enforcement officer’s name or reputation for personal gain is not just unacceptable, but also a direct threat to organizational integrity.
The unauthorized use of the EDSA busway, reserved for buses, emergency vehicles, and high-ranking government officials, has drawn attention in recent weeks following similar incidents involving prominent figures like former Ilocos Sur Gov. Luis “Chavit” Singson and a driver using a protocol-plated SUV linked to Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero.
Reyes has called for government agencies to issue a show-cause order against the motorist, a move that could potentially lead to her driver’s license suspension or revocation. He has also underscored the necessity of a thorough investigation into the individual for potential charges of usurpation of authority for falsely claiming military affiliation.
“I am now talking with my lawyers for the filing of appropriate charges against the name-dropper Major Miguel,” Reyes declared.
In response, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has disavowed “Major Miguel,” confirming she is not a military member, further complicating the narrative surrounding the incident.
As authorities pursue legal actions against the motorist, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding accountability and integrity within law enforcement and addressing unauthorized use of restricted lanes, particularly in high-traffic areas like the EDSA busway.
