Public urged to report alleged violations by traffic enforcers

CEBU, Philippines — The Traffic Enforcement Agency of Mandaue (TEAM) is urging the public to report alleged misconduct among traffic enforcers and submit concrete evidence to help strengthen investigations.

This, as TEAM intensified its probe into personnel-related issues following recent corruption allegations involving several traffic enforcers and a separate video showing one of its personnel hanging onto a jeepney.

TEAM Head Hyll Retuya said the agency is committed to ensuring justice for individuals affected by the reported incidents while maintaining accountability among its personnel.

Retuya emphasized that the department continues to follow due process in handling all administrative and disciplinary cases involving traffic enforcers.

“Mao na nanawagan pud ko sa public, nga kung kamo ma-involve mo ana, [sa mga violations] okay ra nga motug-an mo o mopadala og message diri sa opisina pero we need evidence, hatagi lang mi og ebidensya kay ipakita sad namo ninyo og unsa mi [modala og] implement sa amoang [balaod] diri sa TEAM,” Retuya said.

According to Retuya, evidence such as photos, videos, and documented complaints allows the agency to properly evaluate reports and implement necessary disciplinary measures.

He also stressed that the agency has made fair decisions in addressing violations committed by its personnel, regardless of position or assignment.

The deeper investigation comes days after reports surfaced regarding the dismissal of three TEAM personnel over alleged corruption-related activities.

Amid the ongoing personnel concerns, TEAM also addressed a viral video showing one of its enforcers hanging onto a jeepney while commuting, which drew criticism online from netizens.

Many social media users described the incident as ironic, noting that TEAM is known for strictly implementing traffic regulations, particularly rules against overloading in public utility vehicles.

Following an internal investigation, TEAM clarified that the enforcer involved was off duty and was commuting as an ordinary passenger at the time of the incident.

Retuya explained that the enforcer allegedly decided to give his seat to an elderly female passenger inside the jeepney, resulting in him hanging onto the side of the vehicle during the trip.

“Naay nisakay nga tiguwang babae atong higayona maong iyang gipalingkod og nikapyot siya sa jeep,” Retuya said.

Despite the circumstances surrounding the incident, the agency still considered the act a violation of transport safety regulations.

As part of disciplinary action, the enforcer was suspended for one day without pay.

“With a heavy heart, nasuspenso gyud siya og 1 day to be exact,” Retuya added.

TEAM also reiterated the importance of understanding the full context of incidents before publicly posting or sharing videos online, saying that short clips may not always reflect the complete situation.

Retuya concluded by emphasizing that TEAM remains committed to delivering fair, reliable, and trustworthy public service to the people of Mandaue City. — Daniela Casas, CNU Intern/MRM (FREEMAN)