MANILA (UPDATED) -- The Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation (SAICT) of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said Sunday it apprehended a convoy allegedly linked to former senator Manny Pacquiao for using the EDSA Busway lane.

According to the DOTr-SAICT's statement, operatives of the transportation department stopped a black Toyota van leading two vehicles at around 3 p.m. while using unauthorized blinkers and sirens in the restricted busway.

"The driver revealed being security detail of former Senator Pacquiao. A passenger in the vehicle protested, pledging to relocate the convoy for proper ticketing," DOTr-SAICT said in its statement.

When the traffic official stepped back to let the car relocate the convoy for proper ticketing, it immediately fled the scene along with its two other companion vehicles.

"The black Suburban SUV (without a rear license plate) led the evasion. The Toyota van later returned to accept citations for Disregarding Traffic Signs and Illegal Use of Blinkers, prompting an investigation," the DOTr-SAICT said.

In a statement, Pacquiao's head of security said the former senator was unaware of the incident but has since taken steps to reinforce strict compliance of traffic rules within his staff.

"The van was driven by one of our drivers with helpers on board. After being stopped, the driver left instead of complying with authorities. This was a mistake, and we take full responsibility," said Jojo Cagumay, Pacquiao's head of security.

"I reprimanded the driver and ordered him to return, apologize, and accept the traffic ticket. We do not tolerate any disregard for traffic laws," he added. "We apologize for this mistake and will ensure it does not happen again."

Cagumay also said that the former world champion boxer has reminded his team "to follow traffic regulations," and assured that they are taking the necessary measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.