MMDA traffic head quits due to health reasons

Some of the new programs of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority for traffic management have been put on hold because of the resignation of its traffic chief.

MMDA Chairman Bayani Fernando confirmed over the weekend that Ernesto Camarillo has resigned from his post as executive director for traffic because of a heart ailment.

"He is very sick. I am still looking for a replacement but right now some of our programs are being delayed because of his absence," Fernando said.

Camarillo, who has been with the MMDA since 1995, has been on terminal leave for almost a month now. Prior to his resignation, Camarillo underwent heart surgery but continued to work as the head of the MMDA Traffic Operations Center.

According to Camarillo, his doctor has advised him to "take it easy" because of his health problems.

Since his assumption of office, Fernando has demanded a hundred percent from his directors and officers who accompany him whenever he makes his rounds of Metro Manila.

The implementation of unorthodox traffic schemes has taken its toll on Camarillo because of the requirement for him to be physically present on the streets most of the time.

He admitted that his absence has delayed the implementation of several traffic programs but he said that he could not sacrifice his health for the job. – Marvin Sy