MMDA traffic aide dies after EDSA hit-and-run

MANILA, Philippines – After sustaining head injuries in a hit-and-run incident last week, a Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) traffic enforcer died on Tuesday, December 23.

The MMDA announced Traffic Constable Sonny Acosta’s death on Twitter past 2 pm Tuesday.

MMDA Traffic Constable Sonny Acosta just died. He has returned to the heavenly arms of our Lord where justice and eternal peace reign.

— Official MMDA (@MMDA) December 23, 2014

It was on the morning of Friday, December 18, when Acosta pulled over a motorist – identified as Mark Ian Libunao – in Cubao along EDSA for driving on the lane designated for provincial buses, the Philippine Star reported.

Before Acosta could confiscate the driver’s  license, the driver rolled up the window of his Mitsubishi Adventure and got Acosta’s arm stuck with it. Libunao then allegedly drove off, dragging Acosta along the road.

The MMDA enforcer sustained head injuries and was brought immediately to Saint Luke’s Medical Center in Quezon City.

Libunao, who denied he had anything to do with the incident, was taken into custody Friday night. He is facing charges of reckless imprudence resulting in serious physical injury.

‘A great man’

Acosta was hailed by the MMDA as a traffic constable “who did his job well.”

“EDSA traffic was his daily task. EDSA was where he was hit while wearing his uniform for the last time. To his family and six-month-old daughter, he was a great man. We salute you, Sir Sonny,” the post read.

MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino vowed they will continue to assist Acosta’s family in seeking justice.

He also called on witnesses to come out and “support the quest for justice amidst alleged attempts to mislead the path of the case.”

“This pattern of wanton disregard for traffic laws and persons in authority should be halted collectively by our society – respect for each should be the norm,” Tolentino said.

It was only in late November when another MMDA traffic enforcer was allegedly assaulted by a driver along Quezon Avenue.

The driver – who had a different version of the story – was charged with serious physical injuries, direct assault against an agency or person in authority, grave threat, and robbery. – Rappler.com