CCTO to probe enforcer in viral squabble video

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu City Transportation Office has assured that it does not condone “disrespectful, discourteous and disdainful” behaviors of its personnel.

This after a short video showing a traffic enforcer apparently having an argument with a young woman has gone viral online.

Lawyer Rey Gealon, acting executive director of CCTO, has assured that he will look into the complaint.

“I was surprised to witness on what appeared to be a disrespectful, discourteous and disdainful conduct unbecoming of a traffic officer and supposed gentleman,” said Gealon.

Gealon was informed of the video by his Facebook friends who tagged the CCTO official. The video showed an altercation along the street between a man wearing the CCTO’s green uniform and a girl.

According to the Facebook post of the girl, which has already been removed, she was with her friends when they saw an old woman who looked tired. The girl said they decided to help the old woman by looking for a taxi so the woman could go home.

The girl noted in her post that since they had difficulty flagging down a taxi, they asked help from the traffic enforcer, who was just nearby.

However, the traffic enforcer reportedly did notice their numerous calls. After apparently the 10th time to call the attention of the enforcer, the girl asked if he was deaf.

It was allegedly during this time when the enforcer took notice, but immediately berated the girl. A short argument followed, which was caught on video. 

Gealon assured that he will not let the incident pass and that actions will be taken, especially because the video drew unfavorable remarks from Facebook users.

“Expect a development of this case before this coming week ends,” said Gealon to the media.

But appropriate procedures must be undertaken to prevent partiality in the case, he said.

“Due process has to be observed for him to be able to explain his conduct and hear his side of the story,” Gealon said.

Gealon convened yesterday CCTO’s investigating body to send the Notice to Explain to the concerned traffic enforcer, directing him to explain, within 24 hours, and cite “exculpatory evidence.”

Afterwards, Gealon said the investigating body will render its decision, based on the information gathered, including the explanation from the involved enforcer.

CCTO wishes to keep the enforcer unnamed pending investigation.

The FREEMAN tried to contact the girl who posted the video through her Facebook account but she has not yet responded. — (FREEMAN)