DOJ orders lady prosecutor in viral video to answer MMDA complaint

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has ordered the lady prosecutor, whose run-in with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) went viral over the internet, to answer the complaint filed against her.

“We asked prosecutor [Christine Villamora] Estepa to comment on the MMDA complaint, similar to a show-cause order. She will submit shortly,” Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said.

“Then we’ll decide if we should dismiss the complaint outright or formally charge her; part of procedural due process,” Guevarra added.

Estepa was caught in a video arguing with MMDA traffic enforcers for refusing to give her driver’s license over her illegal parking violation along Mayon Street near Suki Market in Quezon City.

The video had 16.8 million views and was shared 289,000 times.

MMDA General Manager Jojo Garcia said Estepa committed at least four violations including illegal parking, violating the number coding scheme, arrogance, and running away on a short chase from traffic enforcers.

After the incident, Estepa and her husband proceeded to the MMDA to apologize for what happened.

“We would like to take this opportunity to apologize to the MMDA enforcers especially to Colonel Bong Nebrija and constable Azures,” Estepa stated.

“We ask for your understanding on the matter as well as emotions got the better of us,” she added.   /vvp