Outdoor ads group sues MMDA chief

MANILA, Philippines - A group of outdoor advertising practitioners lodged Wednesday a complaint against Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Francis Tolentino, accusing him of usurpation of legislative powers.

In its complaint affidavit, the Outdoor Media Advocacy Group (OMAG) said Tolentino violated Article 239 of the Revised Penal Code when he issued implementing rules on the installation and maintenance of outdoor billboards, display signs, streamers and posters in Metro Manila.

OMAG executive director Winthrop Banez said although the MMDA is an agency under the executive branch and has the authority to plan, monitor and coordinate functions over the delivery of Metro-wide services, the MMDA chairman lacks the authority to promulgate rules and regulations.

MMDA spokeswoman Ma. Lualhati Dorotan said Tolentino has yet to get a copy of the complaint filed.