MMDA official apologizes after scolding erring cop

Metro Manila, Philippines - An official from the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) publicly apologized to a police officer on Thursday, April 3, over a viral video where he scolded a police captain for violating traffic rules.

Gabriel Go, MMDA special operations group strike force head, visited the National Police Commission (Napolcom) in Quezon City to express his apology to PCapt Erik Felipe and the police organization.

In the video, Go berated Felipe after issuing a ticket violation for illegal parking during a clearing operation in Quezon City.

“Sir, if you are listening to this, ako po ay humihingi ng paumanhin sa inyo… It’s not my intention na magkaroon ng ganoong hindi maayos na pangyayari at pakikitungo,” Go said.

“Nais ko rin po humingi ng paumanhin…also to the entire Philippine National Police. Once again, it is not my intention to tarnish the good reputation of the institution of the Philippine National Police,” Go added.

[Translation: Sir, if you are listening to this, I apologize to you… It was never my intention to have an unpleasant incident and interaction…I also want to apologize… also to the entire Philippine National Police. Once again, it is not my intention to tarnish the good reputation of the institution of the Philippine National Police.]

Go said it took him a while to apologize as he wanted to do it wholeheartedly.

Rafael Calinisan, Napolcom commissioner, accepted the MMDA official’s apology. He previously slammed Go for scolding the cop, saying it disrespects the police force.

Calinisan said while Napolcom will not file complaints against the MMDA official, it is up to Felipe to press charges.

Go said he will address possible complaints in the proper forum.

Meanwhile, Calinisan said the incident is also a reminder to police officers to adhere to laws as its primary enforcer.

“Kahit walang nakatingin, sumunod tayo sa lahat ng batas… Hindi porket pulis ay exempted sa batas,” he said.

[Translation: Even if no one is watching, let us follow all the laws... Just because someone is a police officer doesn't mean they are exempt from the law.]