MMDA to give legal assistance to assaulted traffic personnel

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said that it will provide legal assistance to a traffic enforcer who was punched by a motorist after the latter was flagged down for a traffic violation.

The agency identified the enforcer as Muslimin Hapi.

The MMDA shared that based on Hapi’s sworn statement, he issued an ordinance violation receipt (OVR) against Jeric Baylen for reckless driving last Friday evening along Meralco Avenue in Pasig at around 7 p.m. but an altercation followed shortly when the former was about to go back to his post.

The dispute resulted in Hapi's injuries after being punched in the face but the MMDA said that the “enforcer then brought the suspect to the police station where he was charged with direct assault.”

In a statement, MMDA Chairman Romando Artes assured that Hapi will receive legal assistance — noting that the agency is one with its field personnel who are performing their duties. 

He also urged motorists to exercise control and composure especially when apprehended.

 "The MMDA doesn't condone road rage regardless if it is from our ranks or the motoring public. We want to remind the motorists, especially those who were apprehended, that they have the right to file a protest to contest their violation through our Traffic Adjudication Board. All the complaints will be accorded due process," Artes noted.

Currently, Baylen is detained at Pasig City Police Substation 1.

Photos from Metropolitan Manila Development Authority

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