TV5 probing traffic violation of its news vehicle

The Associated Broadcasting Company or TV5 on Friday said it is investigating an incident where one of its news vehicles figured in an alleged traffic violation while tailing the presidential convoy. In a statement, TV5 said it will take "appropriate disciplinary action" against erring employees involved in the incident. "We are investigating the incident involving a News5 vehicle. Rest assured that appropriate disciplinary action will be taken against any and all erring employees. TV5 does not condone such acts," it said. At the time, President Benigno Aquino III's convoy and TV news crews covering one of his engagements had just come from an event in Pasay City and were proceeding to Malacañang. The President’s convoy stopped at the corner of Roxas Boulevard and Vito Cruz near the Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex when the traffic light turned red. While the President's convoy and other media vehicles stopped at a red light before turning left at Roxas Boulevard, a TV5 vehicle went against the flow of traffic in the opposite lane, and caught up with the presidential vehicle. After the incident, reports indicated Aquino himself ordered authorities in the area to issue a traffic violation ticket to the erring driver. But in a later news briefing at Malacañang, Aquino denied giving such an order to traffic officers. Aquino has shown his displeasure with the wanton violation of traffic rules as symbolized by the unauthorized use of the "wangwang" (siren). He spoke out against the wangwang again during his inaugural address. During his second State of the Nation Address last July 25, he even expanded the wangwang theme to include officials taking advantage of privilege in general. — LBG, GMA News