MMDA traffic enforcer sacked over bribe

MANILA, Philippines — Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairperson Francis Tolentino on Thursday sacked a traffic enforcer who was caught on video trying to extort money from a motorist in Quezon City.

Joel Vargas, assigned at a team apprehending overspeeding motorists along the stretch of Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City, was fired from the service for his misdeed.

The incident, which transpired on Tuesday, was recorded on video by the motorist and uploaded on social media by Top Gear, an online motoring publication.

"We will not tolerate street bribery just as we call on the general public to likewise avoid bribing our enforcers," Tolentino said.

Crisanto Saruca, head of the agency's Traffic Discipline Office, said the motorist, Dianne Versoza, may also be held liable for overspeeding and for attempting to bribe Vargas by offering him money.