2 MMDA enforcers escorting senator held

MANILA, Philippines — Two Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) enforcers escorting Sen. Francis Tolentino in Parañaque on Wednesday night were apprehended for having police markings on their motorcycles.

Operatives of the Highway Patrol Group (HPG) were conducting an operation against illegal motorcycle escorts at the corner of J.W. Diokno Avenue and ASEANA Avenue at around 7 p.m. when they spotted the two MMDA personnel on motorcycles using blinkers while escorting a vehicle.

The MMDA personnel, a 64-year-old traffic aide III and 42-year-old traffic aide I, introduced themselves as members of the agency to the police officers.

The HPG said the MMDA traffic aides were questioned on why they had police insignias and “master rider’s badges” on their motorcycles.

Col. Neil Francia, who heads the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group’s National Capital Region field unit, said the MMDA enforcers told them they were escorting a senator when they were pulled over.

“They said the former MMDA chairman, Senator Tolentino. They were authorized,” Francia said in an interview with reporters.

While they were questioning the MMDA enforcers, Francia said they also had a conversation with the lawmaker.

“Senator Tolentino asked if they could leave. I told them, ‘Yes, sir,’” Francia said, noting that the only issue they had was with the police markings on the motorcycles.

While the MMDA enforcers are authorized to act as motorcycle escorts, Francia said their violation was using police markings on their vehicles.

The HPG is preparing charges of usurpation of authority and illegal use of uniform or insignia against the MMDA enforcers.

Acting MMDA Chairman Romando Artes said the agency is “coordinating with the HPG and waiting for the official report.”

“We will investigate the matter and act accordingly,” he added. –  Ghio Ong