Caloocan traffic enforcer sacked for alleged extortion

MANILA, Philippines —  A traffic enforcer of the Caloocan City government has been dismissed from service for allegedly extorting money from a motorcycle rider who was accosted for traffic violations along Deparo street.

Jay Bernardo, who heads the city public safety and traffic management office, confirmed the dismissal of the unnamed enforcer following an investigation.

“On Sunday, I saw the video of the incident. I immediately ordered a probe the following day,” Bernardo told The STAR.

The traffic enforcer allegedly demanded P500 from the motorist, who was issued a citation ticket for driving a motorcycle without a license and helmet.

The motorcycle rider bargained until the traffic enforcer settled for P100 for snacks.

Five other traffic enforcers assigned in the area were suspended for three days, Bernardo said.