Estrella orders dismissal of DAR driver in traffic incident

MANILA, Philippines — Department of Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III yesterday ordered the immediate dismissal of a DAR driver who fled from enforcers after being flagged down for a traffic violation.

“Fire him,” Estrella said, as he directed DAR Assistant Secretary Ubaldo Sadiarin Jr. to ensure that driver Russel Smith surrenders to traffic authorities and takes full responsibility for his violation.

Smith, a DAR contract worker, mentioned Estrella’s name while being apprehended by Quezon City traffic enforcers on Thursday for illegally parking his vehicle along Timog Avenue.

Video footage shows Smith refusing to present his driver’s license and speeding away to evade apprehension.

Smith was hired as an administrative support staff under the office of Sadiarin.

Estrella apologized to the traffic enforcers and commended them for professionalism and commitment to enforcing the law. He denied any direct association with Smith and ordered an immediate and thorough investigation.

“My parents and grandparents taught me to live a simple life. I do not keep police escorts nor do I condone the misuse of my name,” Estrella said in response to reports that Smith resorted to name-dropping during the incident.

Regardless of the findings, Estrella said Smith’s contract of service with the department would not be renewed, and he would be permanently barred from any future employment with the DAR.

“We will recommend the filing of criminal charges against Mr. Smith if our investigation points us to this action. However, the Quezon City Police Department must file charges now if evidence warrants,” Estrella added.