Erap Fires 690 Manila Traffic Enforcers Involved In Extortion And Illegal Activities

Manila Mayor Joseph “Erap” Estrada ordered the mass resignation of hundreds of Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau (MTPB) traffic enforcers amid allegations of extortion.

A total of 690 traffic enforcers are affected by the order, which Estrada said was based on numerous complaints from motorists that many MTPB traffic personnel are involved in extortion and other illegal activities.

“Today, I am issuing an order for all traffic enforcers of the MTPB to step down and turn in their resignation letters. I want all of them out, with no exceptions,” Estrada declared during a press conference Monday, November 28.

He said investigations are already underway. He also assured the public that those found criminally and administratively liable will face the full force of the law.

Estrada also said traffic management operations are temporarily turned over to the Traffic Enforcement Unit of the Manila Police District, with help from the barangay volunteers and other auxiliary units, with the MTPB’s reorganization.

However, the sacked MTPB personnel may re-apply, provided they meet the new set of stricter qualification standards to be implemented to “weed out misfits and those that have derogatory records.”

The new MTPB recruits will be trained by MPD Director, Senior Supt. Joel Coronel.

Estrada’s order coincided with the Manila City government’s launch of its “traffic super body” – an inter-agency group composed of city and barangay officials and leaders and representatives of local transport organizations, parents-teachers associations (PTAs), business groups and other stakeholders.

The traffic super body will oversee the strict implementation of traffic rules in the city and come up with doable solutions to help decongest the city’s main thoroughfares.

Source: Manila Bulletin