16 MMDA operatives sacked for stealing vertical clearance frames

MANILA, Philippines - Sixteen employees of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) have been sacked for allegedly stealing P5.1 million worth of vertical clearance frame owned by the Light Railway Transit Authority (LRTA). The dismissal stemmed from a complaint filed by LRTA administrator Mel Robles who said members of the MMDA’s Sidewalk Clearing Operations Group (SCOG) took away the vertical clearance signs at the corner of C-3 and Rizal Avenue in Caloocan City last July 22, 2008. The loss was discovered by LRTA safety Engineer Edgar de la Cruz upon his routine inspection in the area and noticed the loss of the LRT Vertical height Clearance Frame mounted at 5th avenue at the corner of C-3 road and Rizal Avenue. “We will never tolerate such illegal acts, and immediately after we learned of the incident, those involved were suspended and subjected to investigation,” MMDA chairman Bayani Fernando said. Those dismissed from service were Roberto Lao, Fernando Flores, Gil Silos, Rhoyleen Arro, Joven Abanes, Gilmar De Loria, Mark Davie Magaro, Carlo Mapano, Benny Aguilar, Richard Ordiales, Rico Vico, Joven Avanes, Alex Inocando, Miguel Perfecto, Rolien Arayata and Johnny Aganan. The dismissal was in accordance with the recommendation of SCOG director Roberto Esquivel, who said he did not authorize the actions of the 16 operatives. Fernando said the absence of these markings will pose danger to the riding public. - GMANews.TV