Manila: The police officer driving a police minibus involved in a collision with a public utility bus has been relieved from his post, the Philippine National Police (PNP) announced. The incident occurred near the EDSA bus carousel Main Avenue station around 5 p.m. on April 17, coinciding with the third day of a transport strike and the PNP's Libreng Sakay program initiated in response to the protests.

According to Philippines News Agency, Brig. Gen. Noel Vallo, director of the PNP Logistics Support Service, took immediate action upon learning of the incident. He ordered the transfer of the driver and his immediate supervisor to the Holding and Accounting Unit pending a thorough investigation to ascertain any negligence on their part.

Vallo emphasized to reporters that there are no exceptions within the force, and any mistakes must be accounted for. He reiterated the PNP's zero-tolerance policy toward erring policemen, as mandated by PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.

PNP marked vehicles were authorized to use the EDSA bus lane during the three-day transport strike to support the riding public. However, the driver reportedly miscalculated a left turn, resulting in the collision with the bus.

In a separate press briefing, Napolcom Commissioner Rafael Calinisan directed an investigation into Master Sgt. Jenifer Bredico, the minibus driver, following allegations from bus driver Jessie Soledad. Soledad claimed that Bredico demanded his driver's license post-incident and escalated what could have been a simple altercation by failing to apologize, remaining unyielding, and demanding compensation for the damage.

The Napolcom will also investigate Lt. Col. Geoffrey Lim of the Quezon City Police District Traffic Enforcement Unit for allegedly filing a misleading report suggesting an 'amicable settlement' had been reached, a claim disputed by Soledad.

Calinisan highlighted the necessity of government officials serving with integrity and following the President's mandate to cleanse the police ranks. He emphasized the duty of Napolcom to hold police officers accountable to protect the integrity of the police service and maintain public trust.

PNP Chief Gen. Nartatez Jr. has ordered an administrative review to examine the incident's circumstances and evaluate whether proper protocols were adhered to. The review will also assess command supervision and potential disciplinary lapses within the involved unit, with Gen. Nartatez urging for corrective measures against the personnel found at fault.