PNP chief asks Grab drivers to help fight crime

Philippine National Police Director General Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa on Monday swore in some 1,500 Grab drivers as “Road Safety and Security Ambassadors,” urging them to help the police fight criminals on motorcycles.

“You might say I am asking too much from you. The initial agreement is this is only for road safety but now I am adding security,” Dela Rosa told the transport network vehicle service (TNVS) drivers.

But he explained that since they were already out in the streets, they should also keep their eyes open for criminals.

“If you see any armed men on motorcycles whom you think are not policemen, report them to the nearest police station so that the policemen can respond immediately,” Dela Rosa said, admitting that tandem-riding criminals remained a problem.

Grab drivers who volunteered to become road safety marshals were expected to police their own ranks and encourage their fellow drivers to practice road discipline.

They will be reporting through a special hotline set up by the PNP Highway Patrol Group (HPG).

PNP-HPG director, Chief Supt. Arnel Escobal said they would still validate the reports made by the road marshals. —Nikko Dizon