MMDA traffic enforcer nabbed for extortion

MANILA, Philippines - A traffic enforcer of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) was caught extorting P1,500 from a truck driver in Pasig City yesterday morning.

Traffic constable Miller Mendoza, 37, did not resist arrest when cornered by elements of the Traffic and Parking Management Office (TPMO) of Pasig.

Mendoza allegedly nabbed Wilfred Sumayang for an unknown traffic violation.

Arnel Gragas of the TPMO said Mendoza demanded P1,500 from Sumayang in exchange for the release of his driver’s license.

The traffic enforcer was assigned in Timog Avenue in Quezon City but positions himself along Marcos Highway in Pasig City to mulct from motorists.

Mendoza said Sumayang was issued a traffic citation ticket because the closed van he was driving was “out of line.”

MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino vowed to file administrative charges against Mendoza and possibly sack him from his post.

Mendoza was detained at the Pasig City police jail while robbery-extortion charges are being readied against him.