MMDA fires three traffic enforcers, suspends 23 others

MANILA, Philippines - Three traffic enforcers from the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) were dismissed while 23 others were suspended for various irregularities.

MMDA chairman Francis Tolentino said the three traffic constables from the agency’s Traffic Discipline Office (TDO) were terminated from the service for extortion, grave misconduct, and gross neglect of duty. Tolentino did not identify the three erring traffic enforcers.

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

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

Tolentino said 50 more traffic constables had been issued stern warnings and reprimands for the same violations. Of these, three have already been charged, Tolentino said.

According to Tolentino, the three erring TDO personnel were given due process by the MMDA’s administrative and legal departments.

“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” Tolentino said.