On Thursday, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) filed a complaint against the motorist featured in a viral video who hit a traffic enforcer trying to prevent him from fleeing the scene of a road incident in Taguig City on August 27.
“A driver's license is a mere privilege, not a right, granted by the state, which if abused and misused may be suspended or revoked by the state, thus, will always yield to the general welfare of the community,” MMDA Acting Chairman Atty. Don Artes said in his complaint.
In a two-page complaint, Artes urged the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to impose disciplinary measures on the SUV driver involved in the recent incident.
The SUV hit a motorcycle rider and passenger from a ride-hailing company. In response, an MMDA traffic enforcer jumped onto the vehicle’s hood to prevent the driver from fleeing.
The traffic enforcer chased and managed to intercept the SUV, positioning himself in front of its hood to prevent the driver from fleeing. He was dragged 500 meters from the scene of the crash.
According to the Southern Police District’s traffic accident investigation report, the incident occurred on Sales-East Service Road, Brgy. Western Bicutan, Taguig City, at 8:52 a.m.
“The driver was escaping responsibility, illustrating that he is undeserving of his driving privilege and as such, should be stripped or suspended thereof until he can show worthiness thereto once again,” Artes cited in the formal complaint.
During a press conference yesterday, Artes revealed that the SUV driver came forward to the MMDA, admitting he was behind the wheel during the accident. He also noted that the SUV is registered in his wife’s name.
Despite the driver’s apology, Artes stated they will not overlook the incident and will proceed with legal action against him.
The MMDA is also preparing to file charges of attempted homicide and direct assault against the driver, citing clear intent to harm the traffic enforcer.
“Instead of facing the responsibility of side-swiping a motorcycle rider and a passenger, he tried to escape. But we will not tolerate this kind of wrongdoing. He will face criminal charges as a result of his actions. Any explanation is not acceptable because the incident has elements of assault upon a person in authority and has intent to cause harm to our enforcer,” said Artes.
Artes urged motorists to respect traffic enforcers, who are simply doing their jobs despite the daily risks they face in managing traffic on major roads in Metro Manila.
