MMDA suspends anti-jaywalking unit after officers caught in fraud; traffic enforcers to take over implementation

THE METROPOLITAN Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has suspended the operations of its anti-jaywalking unit following the arrest of an administration officer for falsification of documents. The unit’s deputy chief for administration, identified as Joanna S. Eclarinal, was arrested on Monday after the treasury office noticed that a jaywalking violator presented a supposed official receipt (OR) from the anti-jaywalking office for a P500 fine. MMDA General Manager Jose Arturo S. Garcia Jr. said jaywalking enforcers issue a ticket for violation, and the fine should be paid directly to the treasury office. “Ang ginawa kasi nila, pinaaakyat sa opisina nila…bibigyan sila ng OR (What they do is they let violators go to their office upstairs, give them an official receipt). Walang (There is no) check and balance,” said Mr. Garcia in a press conference on Wednesday. Two other officers of the unit, who are allegedly accomplices of Ms. Eclarinal, remain still at-large. The anti-jaywalking unit’s head, Salvador F. Galang, said he was not aware of the scheme by his staffers. “Wala talaga akong alam,” Mr. Galang said, noting that he “exits” the office by 2 p.m. and the fraudulent activities were likely being committed after that time. While the anti-jaywalking unit operations is suspended, Mr. Garcia said traffic enforcers will apprehend jaywalkers. — Vince Angelo C. Ferreras