PCG to probe personnel in viral SLEX reckless driving video

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Monday said it will conduct an investigation into its junior officer who was involved in the viral reckless driving video captured on the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX).

In a statement, the PCG identified the personnel as Coast Guard Ensign Alain Anthony Agpalo.

"We assure the public that we will cooperate with the LTO investigation. We will also conduct a parallel investigation and sanction CG Ensign Agpalo based on the evidence," PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan said.

"Here in the Philippine Coast Guard, we do not tolerate officers or personnel violating existing laws and regulations implemented by other agencies. They must face the consequences of their actions," he added.

On January 4, the PCG received a letter from the Land Transportation Office (LTO) identifying Agpalo as the motorcycle rider that allegedly illegally entered SLEX and refused to stop when enforcers flagged him down.

Agpalo was directed to appear at the LTO on Monday.

He should also submit a written explanation to defend himself from being administratively charged for disregarding traffic signs and reckless driving, as well as to prevent his driver's license from being revoked.

According to PCG, Coast Guardians with the rank of "Ensign" are considered junior officers with roughly one to five years of service.

Agpalo finished his Coast Guard training in October 2019, after which he formally took oath as an official member, the PCG said. —Joviland Rita/KG, GMA Integrated News