Erap’s next target: Corrupt barangay execs

MANILA, Philippines – After sacking the entire Manila Traffic Parking Bureau (MTPB), Mayor Joseph Estrada on Tuesday said he would go after corrupt barangay officials protecting the operations of illegal transport terminals in the city.

“They will be our next target,” Estrada said, referring to barangay officials who connive with operators of illegal jeepney and bus terminals.

He asked the public for more patience, saying the city government was doing everything to ease traffic congestion in the city.

Estrada said he was aware that some barangay leaders and policemen tolerate the presence of illegal terminals because they benefit from the operations.

He sought the help of transport groups such as the Federation of Jeepney Operators and Drivers Associations and Pasang Masda in the campaign against illegal terminals, which cause traffic buildup along the city’s major roads.

On Monday, Estrada sacked 690 members of the MTPB amid reports that they were involved in corruption and other illegal activities.

A new batch of traffic enforcers to be trained by the Manila Police District (MPD) will be fielded by January next year.

The Traffic Enforcement Unit of the MPD has taken over traffic management operations in the city.

Sacked traffic personnel may reapply for the same job provided they meet the qualifications that a special selection committee will formulate.

Interested applicants must be 24 to 40 years old, at least 5’4” in height and have no criminal record.