Muntinlupa city: The Philippine National Police (PNP) has initiated an operation to identify and apprehend the driver of a sports utility vehicle (SUV) involved in a hit-and-run incident on the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) in Muntinlupa City. The incident resulted in injuries to a member of the Highway Patrol Group (HPG).

According to Philippines News Agency, the incident, which took place on Saturday, was captured on dashcam footage. Authorities are utilizing this footage to identify the owner and driver of the SUV. The impact led to Pat. Jeric Aya-ay losing control of his motorcycle, which rolled over multiple times, as revealed during a briefing at Camp Crame in Quezon City on Monday. The SUV driver did not stop and fled the scene.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. expressed confidence in identifying the driver and holding them accountable for the reckless driving that endangered the life of the officer. He instructed the HPG to collaborate with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to ensure appropriate charges are filed. The PNP also committed to providing immediate assistance to the injured officer, including medical support.

HPG chief Brig. Gen. Rommel Batangan stated that initial findings indicate the SUV was overspeeding. Coordination with the LTO revealed no record of the license plate number and conduction sticker, suggesting the use of a fake plate number. The HPG is also working with the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) to enhance the video footage for a clearer image of the vehicle.

Batangan confirmed that criminal charges would be filed against the driver, including reckless imprudence resulting in physical injuries and damage to property. The driver could also face penalties for violating road safety regulations, such as exceeding the maximum speed limit on the expressway, and falsification of public documents if it is proven that the vehicle used fake license plates.

Investigators are still determining if the collision was intentional or a result of both drivers entering each other's blind spots. "Possible na sinadya, possible na sakto lang nagkasabay ng pasok sa inner lane," Batangan noted, indicating the possibility of intent or coincidental timing.

The PNP has urged the public to report any information that could assist authorities in identifying and locating the SUV driver.