MMDA bans vlogging of operations

MANILA, Philippines — Following a viral video that landed a ranking official in trouble, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has ordered a ban on the recording and posting of videos of its road clearing operations and other official activities.

In a statement issued on April 4, MMDA Chairman Romando Artes announced the prohibition of vlogging, recording, posting and other forms of documentation of the agency’s operations by both its employees and private individuals.

Under this directive, only the MMDA’s Public Affairs Staff-Public Information Office (PAS-PIO) is authorized to post official photos and videos of operations on the agency’s social media platforms, including Facebook, X and Instagram.

Artes announced the directive after a meeting yesterday between the MMDA and representatives from Metro Manila’s 17 local government units in preparation for the expected surge of motorists and commuters during Holy Week.

The decision follows a cyberlibel complaint filed against MMDA Special Operations Group Strike Force head Gabriel Go by Capt. Mann Erik Felipe of the Quezon City Police District (QCPD).

Felipe’s complaint stemmed from an incident in which an MMDA personnel apprehended him for illegal parking. He alleged that Go berated him in front of fellow officers outside the QCPD’s Anonas police station.

Footage of the confrontation, recorded by a vlogger known as “Dada Koo,” circulated on social media, intensifying public scrutiny.

While Felipe maintained he supported Go’s advocacy of clearing roads and sidewalks of obstructions, he claimed the viral video of him allegedly being shamed by Go put his credibility and privacy on the line.