Pacquiao camp apologizes over driver's use of EDSA bus lane

The camp of former senator Manny Pacquiao has apologized after their service vehicle was caught using the EDSA bus lane.

In a statement, Jojo Cagumay, head of Pacquiao's security, said he has already reprimanded the driver.

“I reprimanded the driver and ordered him to return, apologize, and accept the traffic ticket. We do not tolerate any disregard for traffic laws,” he said.

“We apologize for this mistake and will ensure it does not happen again," he added.

Cagumay said the van was driven by one of their drivers with helpers on board. 

"After being stopped, the driver left instead of complying with authorities. This was a mistake, and we take full responsibility," he said.

He further said Pacquiao was unaware of the incident and has since taken steps to reinforce strict compliance with traffic rules.

The former senator has reminded his team to follow traffic regulations as he values discipline and respect for the law, according to Cagumay.

Necessary measures are in place to prevent similar incidents in the future, he added.

The Department of Transportation’s Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation (SAICT) caught two vehicles, with occupants claiming to be part of Pacquiao's security detail, using the EDSA busway.

According to a “24 Oras Weekend” report on Sunday, the van and SUV were also using unauthorized blinkers and sirens.

One of the vehicles’ passengers said they would pull over to talk with the traffic enforcer but instead fled.

The van eventually returned. The convoy was issued traffic violation tickets for disregarding traffic signs and illegal use of blinkers.—Joviland Rita/AOL, GMA Integrated News