Agency acts swiftly after video evidence surfaces, vowing further investigation and legal action
THE Land Transportation Office (LTO) has moved decisively to dismiss two of its employees and a security guard following allegations of soliciting bribes from jeepney drivers and operators in exchange for passing a mandatory test. The swift action comes in response to complaints and surfacing video evidence, signaling a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption within the agency.
In a video statement released Friday night, the LTO confirmed that the dismissed individuals were part of the Traffic Safety Division. LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Markus V. Lacanilao stated, “I have ordered the dismissal of two LTO employees and one security guard who were reported by jeepney drivers and operators for allegedly extorting money from them.”
The LTO’s statement emphasized the seriousness with which it is treating the allegations. “The LTO Intelligence and Investigation Division has been immediately tasked to investigate the involved LTO personnel and security guard to determine the cases that can be filed against them,” the agency added.
The allegations center around claims that the employees and security guard were demanding money from jeepney drivers and operators to ensure they passed a required test, effectively creating a pay-to-pass system. This not only undermines the integrity of the LTO but also places an undue financial burden on public transport workers.
The LTO’s prompt response underscores a commitment to rooting out corruption and maintaining public trust. The agency is expected to release further details as the investigation progresses and legal proceedings are initiated. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to ensure ethical conduct and transparency within government agencies.
