Wes Gatchalian apologizes over PWD lane incident

Valenzuela Representative Wes Gatchalian has apologized over the parking of his vehicle in front of a lane intended for persons with disabilities (PWD) as shown in a viral photo.

The photo shows Gatchalian's car parked blocking a PWD lane at a restaurant on Mindanao Avenue in Quezon City.

In an open letter posted on his Facebook page, Gatchalian said it was not him who was driving his car but one of his staff, which he has already suspended.

"While it was not me who was driving the vehicle, I believe that it was my duty to ensure that my staff constantly acts in a manner that respects and is conscious of the rights of every person," he said.

"Nothing less should be expected of my office."

Gatchalian said he supports policies that push for inclusivity and accessibility of PWDs.

"I continue to be a partner of the PWD community in pursuing policies and programs to make our country, especially my district, more accessible to the members of the community. Please accept my deepest apology," he said.

Just recently, another lawmaker, ACTS OFW party-list Representative John Bertiz III, was heavily criticized after video of him supposedly trying to skirt security protocol at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport was caught on video.

Bertiz has apologized for the incident, but he is facing investigation before the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges. —Erwin Colcol/KBK, GMA News