LTO defends traffic enforcer berated by Edsa protesters

Thirty-four operators of PUVs, mostly buses and UV Express taxis, have been ordered by the LTFRB to attend a hearing on July 9 after they were spotted at a surprise Iglesia ni Cristo rally on Tuesday. —GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Office (LTO) on Thursday asked the public to respect its enforcers after a viral video showed one of its personnel being confronted by several people, including a Quezon City councilor, during the Iglesia ni Cristo surprise rally on Tuesday.

In a statement, the LTO said the video showed an LTO enforcer whose actions were pursuant to its mandate “to enforce transportation laws and regulations and protect the riding public.”

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“Consistent with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the guidance of Department of Transportation Secretary Banoy Lopez, LTO personnel are expected to carry out their duties with courtesy and respect at all times,” the LTO added.

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It appealed to the public to extend the same courtesy and cooperation to government personnel during similar lawful enforcement activities.

READ: WATCH: Tension erupts as police confront INC rallyists on Edsa

“The LTO remains committed to the faithful enforcement of transportation laws and regulations in the interest of public safety,” it said.

In the video that went viral on Wednesday, an LTO enforcer was spotted issuing a violation ticket to the driver of a van illegally parked on Edsa.

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READ: Iglesia chokes Edsa, then gets permit for 2nd day

QC council probe

However, he was harassed by a group of people, including Quezon City Councilor Rannie Ludovica, who berated him.

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READ: QC councilor found guilty of falsifying SALN

Following the incident, the Quezon City Council said it would undertake “an impartial inquiry into the incident to establish the relevant facts and determine whether any actions taken were consistent with the standards of conduct expected of public officials.”

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In a statement, the council said that while it recognizes the dedication of all public servants, including Ludovica, and their duty to raise legitimate concerns and demand accountability, “such responsibility must always be exercised with respect, professionalism and due regard for the dignity and rights of others.” /cb