The Mandaue City Government has reaffirmed its strict zero-tolerance policy against bribery, extortion, and other forms of corruption among local government employees, following the dismissal of several traffic personnel accused of misconduct.
The reminder comes after three members of the Traffic Enforcement Agency of Mandaue (TEAM) were terminated from service for allegedly soliciting money from motorists in exchange for not issuing traffic violations.
City Administrator Atty. Gonzalo Malig-on Jr. said aside from the dismissed personnel, three other traffic enforcers had also been sanctioned for separate violations involving improper conduct on the road.
Malig-on said Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano’s directive enforces a strict zero-tolerance stance against corruption, particularly within frontline services like traffic management.
He added that while the other personnel were not linked to bribery allegations, they were penalized for violations such as reckless behavior and improper road use, including hanging onto a jeepney and driving through restricted areas.
The city government said it actively monitors complaints, including those posted on social media, and immediately acts on verified reports.
Malig-on emphasized that traffic enforcers are expected to strictly follow the same rules they implement on motorists.
He said the policy aims to ensure discipline within the ranks and maintain public trust in city services.
TEAM head Hyll Retuya separately confirmed that the agency acted on the cases after videos and photos of the alleged violations circulated online.
He said the agency maintains a strict anti-corruption policy and that the dismissal of the personnel serves as a warning against misconduct in public service.
Retuya said the investigation relied on evidence such as dashcam footage and audio recordings, which allegedly showed enforcers negotiating illegal payments from motorists.
He added that all three personnel were subjected to due process before their termination and had admitted to the allegations during administrative proceedings.
Retuya also encouraged the public to report similar incidents through official channels, including the TEAM Facebook page and the mayor’s office, while stressing that all complaints will still undergo proper validation. (VCL)
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