Civil Service Commission Deems MMDA’s Acceptance of P200K from Chavit Singson Illegal
CHAVIT SINGSON – The Civil Service Commission stated that the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) acted illegally by accepting the P200,000 from the former Ilocos Sur Governor.
Singson’s staff was apprehended by MMDA enforcers for using the exclusive bus lane along EDSA. Rather than defending himself, Singson was impressed by the enforcement and decided to give P200,000 to the enforcers who apprehended his vehicle.
During an interview, he mentioned, “Nakita ninyo ‘yung sinabi ko sa nag-interview na magbibigay ako ng P100,000 na papremyo sa mga nanghuli. Dahil ilang araw na nangyari, gagawin kong P200,000 ang ibibigay ko.”
MMDA accepted the reward during a ceremony, intending to use the money to enhance their services. However, the Civil Service Commission (CSC) deemed MMDA’s decision to accept the money illegal, citing Section 7 of RA 6713, also known as the “Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.”
This law states that public officials and employees should not solicit or accept any gift, gratuity, favor, or anything of monetary value in connection with their official duties. CSC Commissioner Aileen Lizada emphasized that MMDA enforcers are already funded by taxpayers and should not accept donations from private individuals. She expressed concerns that accepting such donations could lead to violations and create an unnecessary additional source of income.
Lizada added, “Bayad na kami, ang aming sweldo, ng taumbayan. You don’t have to reward us for doing our work, sa pananaw ko po…sa Batas 6713, bawal po.” As of now, MMDA has not yet responded to CSC’s statement.
Meanwhile, the EDSA Busway is a dedicated lane along EDSA, a major thoroughfare in Metro Manila, exclusively for buses. It aims to improve the efficiency and reliability of public transportation by providing faster travel times for commuters.
