MMDA enforcer cited for feeding street kid

MANILA, Philippines - The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) yesterday commended traffic enforcer Reynaldo Romano after a photograph of him feeding a street child in Quezon City went viral and earned praise from netizens.

MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino gave Romano a Marangal badge, a medal, a certificate of commendation, and a cash reward, calling his actions “worthy of emulation.”

“It is not every day that we see civil servants like Mr. Romano going out of his way, spending his last money, to feed a hungry street child that he doesn’t even know. And for this simple deed, he deserves our respect and admiration,” Tolentino said.

Tolentino also gave Romano a salary increase. Romano has been working for the MMDA for the past 12 years as a casual employee.

Tolentino added that Romano’s two children would also be given college scholarships and slots in the MMDA’s summer job program.

Romano will also be speaking in the MMDA’s retraining and reorientation seminars to serve as an inspiration to fellow MMDA traffic constables.

According to Romano, he just wanted to help the girl out of pity.

“The little girl told me she had not eaten since morning, and it was already 3:30 p.m. I took pity and bought her P10 rice, P10 pansit (noodles) and water. Good thing I still have P30 in my pocket,” he said.

Romano fed the girl again the next day. A photograph showing him feeding the little girl went viral on Facebook.