MMDA fires 3 traffic enforcers for extortion

MANILA, Philippines – The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) fired 3 traffic constables and suspended 23 others for committing various violations.

On Monday, February 23, the agency said the 3 traffic enforcers from the Traffic Discipline Office were dismissed for extortion, grave misconduct, and gross neglect of duty.

MMDA did not identify the dismissed personnel.

Meanwhile, 23 others were meted suspension ranging from 15 to 90 days for extortion, questionable issuance of traffic violation receipts, misconduct, grave abuse of authority, insubordination, violation of office rules, and failure to attend monthly formation.

MMDA chairman Francis Tolentino said 50 more personnel were issued stern warnings for the same violations.

He added that the erring personnel were given due process in formal investigations conducted by the agency’s administrative and legal departments.

Tolentino said that the MMDA will continue its efforts to clean up its ranks.

“Let this serve as a serious warning to all our erring personnel. We will continue to eliminate the rotten eggs from our agency,” he said.

The MMDA chair also encouraged the public to report traffic enforcers engaged in illegal activities.

“I am encouraging the public to continue their vigilance and report to us any illegal activities involving our employees, and at the same time appreciate and commend honest and hardworking employees, which comprise the majority,” he said. – Katerina Francisco/Rappler.com