THE Metro Manila Development Authority shelved the graveyard shift of traffic following increased complaints of illegal activities against his men during nighttime.
“At night, they [enforcers]will just stay inside the barracks, and we will be forming a group, a roving team. The reason why we are doing this we are receiving complaints about corruption involving traffic enforcers,” MMDA acting chairman Thomas Orbos said.
The new group will be composed of 350 personnel tasked to go around Metro Manila to monitor traffic situations.
“There will be no more enforcers staying in one place to avoid any illegal activity. Just like in Radial Road 10, C-5 Road and Mindanao Avenue, most of the victims there were truck [drivers],” Orbos said.
“Another reason is we want to augment the daytime,” he added.
Last Wednesday, the MMDA chief reminded his men that he will strictly implement the one strike policy on any and all employees guilty of any illegal activity.
Orbos said employees accused of illegal activity will be put on preventive suspension at once, whether permanent, casual, or on job order status, subject to applicable rules and regulations.
“Even a simple insinuation or word that our employees are engaged in any corrupt practices shall be investigated immediately. And if proven guilty, then we will file the necessary administrative charges and apply the appropriate sanction after due process,” he said.
In a memorandum, Orbos said all departments involved in the investigation of illegal activities or complaints are instructed to swiftly investigate and resolve such cases.
He added if there is a need to replace all existing traffic enforcers with new ones to ensure that the agency’s fight against corruption will be won over, then he shall have no recourse but to do it. “We are not afraid to replace everybody if and when necessary.”
All agency field personnel, particularly those belonging to the enforcement units, are also directed to wear visibly their identification cards at all times.
It was also agreed that all accredited tow truck personnel shall follow the same standards observed by MMDA employees.
“They also represent MMDA in the public. As such, we will never tolerate any acts of abuse from all the accredited tow truck companies and their personnel. Any accusation of wrongdoing shall be dealt with in accordance to the rules and regulations of MMDA, as if they are also our employee,” Orbos said.
