MANILA, Philippines — Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez ordered the relief of an official over the alleged unauthorized use of the Edsa busway by ambulances.
Rayson dela Torre, head of the Special Operations Group of the Special Action Intelligence Committee for Transportation (SAICT) reportedly flagged an ambulance because it was transporting a patient for a medical check-up rather than an emergency. The vehicle was later allowed to continue using the busway.
Secretary Lopez clarified that on-duty ambulances were permitted to use the busway regardless of the patient’s condition. He emphasized that enforcement should be carried out with discernment, ensuring that urgent medical transport is never impeded.
In a statement, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) extended sympathy to the patient’s family and assured the public that measures were being strengthened to implement enforcement policies with compassion. The department stressed that public safety remained its paramount concern.
