PPA, ATI probe alleged case of bribery at Port of Manila

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) and Asian Terminals Inc. (ATI) have ordered an investigation into an alleged bribery incident involving an equipment operator at the Port of Manila caught on video.

The PPA said Friday in a statement that it has been made aware of a circulating video that showed a port employee engaging in illegal transaction, further saying that it has directed the concerned Port Management Office to coordinate with the terminal operator regarding the incident.

According to the ATI, it had already contacted the individual who uploaded the video for further clarification and information surrounding the alleged bribery.

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The equipment operator involved in the incident had been temporarily placed under administrative status pending the completion of the company’s fact-finding investigation, according to the ATI.

“As an interim measure and without prejudice to the outcome of the investigation, the equipment operator concerned has been temporarily placed on administrative status, pending the completion of the Company’s fact-finding process,” ATI stated in a Facebook post.

Moreover, the ATI reiterated its strict policy against “bribery, corruption and all forms of unethical conduct”, adding that any employee found to have violated its Code of Conduct and company policies would face disciplinary action in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

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“ATI maintains a strict policy against bribery, corruption, and all forms of unethical conduct. The Company upholds the highest standards of integrity and professionalism, and any employee found to have violated our Code of Conduct and applicable policies shall be dealt with in accordance with established disciplinary procedures and applicable laws,” ATI added.

The PPA, meanwhile, said it remains committed to “integrity, transparency and accountability”, adding that any proven violations will be dealt with in accordance with existing laws, regulations, and contractual obligations.

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Both the PPA and ATI urged the public to allow the investigation to run its course and refrain from drawing premature conclusions while the fact-finding process is ongoing. Rendell Manuel, INQUIRER.net trainee /jpv

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