THE Armed Forces yesterday disowned the woman who introduced herself as a military officer after she was apprehended by traffic enforcers for illegally using the EDSA bus lane last Thursday.
“She is not a member of the AFP,” AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla, referring to the woman who claimed to be “Major Miguel” of the Intelligence Service of the AFP (ISAFP).
The woman, who claimed to be a Fil-Am, also told traffic enforcers that she was involved in preparations for the upcoming Balikatan exercises between Filipino and US troops.
She also introduced herself as a niece of PNP director for logistics Maj. Gen. Mario Reyes, who yesterday denied any relationship with the woman.
The woman later left, telling traffic enforcers she would no longer use the EDSA bus lane.
“The AFP as a professional organization does not condone nor tolerate any behavior that undermines the integrity of our institution or violates the law. We take allegations of misconduct and misrepresentation seriously within our ranks,” Padilla said.
“Whether or not she is a member of the military, she should be accountable for the violations she committed,” Padilla added.
In a statement, Reyes denied any relationship with the woman, adding he is talking with his lawyers to file charges against her.
Reyes said the woman is not his relative by blood or by affinity, adding he has never met her in any capacity.
“I strongly condemn the act of namedropping me in a recent incident regarding a traffic violation of the EDSA bus lane policy,” said Reyes.
“Any attempt to exploit the name or reputation of a law enforcement officer for personal gain or to avoid accountability is utterly unacceptable and undermines the integrity of our organization. The PNP enforces the law without fear or favor,” said Reyes.
Reyes appealed to the public to refrain from engaging in such “deceptive practices and to respect the authority of law enforcement officers.
“I also urge concerned agencies to conduct a show cause order and thorough investigation to perhaps file usurpation of authority to that person,” said Reyes.
“I am now talking with my lawyers for the filing of appropriate charges against the namedropper Major Miguel,” added Reyes.
