MMDA orders suspension of constable over viral ‘kotong’ video

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority on Thursday suspended a traffic constable who a viral video showed to be allegedly engaging in kotong (extortion).

 

MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino ordered the suspension while an investigation is conducted, the MMDA said on its Facebook page.

 

"Chairman Francis Tolentino has ordered the immediate suspension of the traffic constable involved in the videotaped kotong incident pending investigation of the case wherein due process will be observed," it said.

 

Tolentino added he will not tolerate illegal street activities among MMDA personnel.

 

He also encouraged the use of video cameras by motorists and the public.

 

The video posted on the Facebook page of TopGear Philippines quoted one Jay Ramirez, the one who took the video, as saying the video was taken near a mall at EDSA-Shaw.

 

According to Ramirez, he had complained about it on MMDA's website but got no feedback.

 

Ramirez said the constable allegedly sits around and only stands up to collect money from the buses, about P20 each.

 

For its part, the MMDA replied its Traffic Discipline Office is investigating the matter. — Joel Locsin/VC, GMA News