The Philippine Star

Philippine National Police (PNP)
chief Director General Avelino Razon Jr. has warned officers against
taking their wife or girlfriend to ride with them on a police
motorcycle.

"Sometimes, motorcycle-riding cops
are seen with their wife or girlfriend back-riding these motorcycles,
which gives the impression to the public that (they) are using
government resources for their personal use," he said.

Razon said government vehicles, particularly police motorcycles, are for official use, especially during emergencies.

He said situations may arise when
an officer has to respond to an emergency but cannot do so because his
wife or girlfriend is riding with him.

Razon also ordered police
commanders to ensure that motorcycle policemen wear proper uniform with
the prescribed helmets for protection.

Razon said all escort missions of
PNP motorcycle units must conform to Memorandum Circular 2000-003 that
stipulates guidelines and policies in rendering mobile and motorcycle
escorts to VIPs and foreign dignitaries.

"PNP motorcycles shall be used
primarily in patrolling and not merely for escorting VIPs. It is
prohibited to use (them) during weddings, birthdays and funerals as
escorts," he said.

Razon spelled out the only
exceptions include escorting the President and other high-ranking
government officials, foreign dignitaries, visiting heads of state and
victims needing immediate medical assistance.

He reminded all regional police
directors to strictly observe the PNP’s policy on the use of police
motorcycles to prevent them from being used for personal purposes.

Razon said police motorcycles are no exception to the rule.

He also directed police commanders to see to it that police motorcycles bear license plates.