Quezon City traffic enforcers warned vs taking bribes

MANILA, Philippines — Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte has warned local traffic enforcers that they would face criminal and administrative charges if they are caught taking bribes from motorists.

“Let us not allow the image of our city to be tarnished because of a small amount,” she said. “Let’s do what is right, and don’t give in to the temptation of money.”

On Thursday, Belmonte commended Roberto Francisco, a member of the city’s task force on traffic and transport management, for arresting a motorist who tried to bribe him after the latter was cited for illegal parking.

Charges of bribery and violation of the city ordinance on traffic rules were filed against the motorist, whose name was withheld.

Francisco said he was conducting clearing operations along Katipunan Avenue last week when he noticed a van illegally parked on the sidewalk.

Upon issuance of a ticket, he said the driver handed him P200 supposedly to settle his traffic infraction.

Francisco said he informed Ariel Inton, head of the task force, who ordered that the suspect be brought to the Anonas police station.

Inton warned motorists against bribing traffic enforcers, saying they would not hesitate to file criminal charges for corrupting public officials.