Public Servants Urged to Maintain Professionalism: No Need to Shame Traffic Violators

Public servants and traffic enforcers do not need to humiliate traffic violators to enforce the law, according to Arnel Anchinges, Head of the Seguridad, Kaayusan, Katranquilohan, Kauswagan (SK3) office.

Anchinges made the statement following a viral social media video involving a confrontation between a public school teacher and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) personnel. The incident escalated after MMDA Special Operations Group chief Gabriel Go cited the teacher for riding a motorcycle without a protective helmet.

'Issue Tickets, Do Not Record'

According to video footage of the incident, the teacher admitted to the traffic violation and expressed willingness to accept the corresponding citation ticket. However, the driver strongly objected to being filmed by MMDA personnel during the clearing operations. Despite the teacher's explicit pleas, the footage was later posted to social media, triggering severe online backlash regarding motorist privacy and public shaming.

Anchinges clarified that a standard traffic apprehension should only take three to five minutes. During this window, enforcers must limit their queries to the specific violation and refrain from digging into a citizen's confidential or personal information.

Investigation and Accountability

The fallout from the video has led to calls from lawmakers, including ACT Teachers Rep. Antonio Tinio, for the immediate dismissal of the apprehension officer. MMDA Chairman Don Artes confirmed that an official administrative investigation is underway. The agency has barred Go from field clearing duties while his conduct is under review.

Local groups pointed out that the incident directly challenges the MMDA's own internal policies, which strictly prohibit employees from recording, vlogging, or livestreaming active operations on personal social media accounts during work shifts.

Prioritizing Public Dignity

While acknowledging that strict road rules are necessary to preserve lives, Anchinges maintained that keeping the community safe must go hand-in-hand with human empathy. He reminded public personnel that professionalism, humility, and basic respect for human dignity remain non-negotiable requirements when interacting with motorists on the road.

Traffic enforcers and public servants must uphold professionalism and avoid publicly shaming citizens when apprehending them for traffic violations.

Arnel Anchinges, Head of the Security, Peace, and Development (SK3) office, issued this reminder following a controversial video that recently went viral on social media.