Traffic cop denies protecting illegal pedicabs

MANILA, Philippines - A traffic policeman vehemently denied yesterday an accusation hurled by a group of Manila traffic enforcers that he protects illegal pedicab drivers in Divisoria.

In a confrontation with his accusers at the General Assignment Section of the Manila Police District, Police Officer 3 Luis Micay said he indeed meddled with the seizure of 34 illegal pedicabs, but claimed he was only asking for the release of two pedicabs owned by a relative.

“There was no intention to prevent the impounding of the entire 34 pedicabs. There was only a miscommunication. Besides, I was also apprehending these illegal pedicabs, which obstruct traffic,” Micay said.

Micay was the subject of complaints from six personnel of Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau (MTPB), led by sector commander Alex Constantino, for allegedly interfering in the clearing and apprehension of illegal pedicabs in Divisoria Thursday morning. The group filed charges of physical injury and oral defamation against the traffic policeman.

The MTPB claimed Micay berated them for their operation and even tried to untie the ropes that bound the pedicabs on their way to the impounding area at the North Cemetery. Constantino claimed he suffered abrasions on his arms when he prevented Micay from untying the ropes.

Yesterday the MTPB enforcers withdrew their complaints after their chief, Nancy Villanueva, and traffic commander Superintendent Rizaldy Yap reportedly had a talk at the Manila City Hall.

“We were advised by our chief to settle the matter amicably. And since we are both traffic enforcers we were advised to just join our efforts in the eradication of traffic obstructions, including pedicabs,” Constantino said.

The traffic sector will reportedly work out a plan to reroute pedicabs so as not to obstruct traffic, according to Constantino.    – Nestor Etolle