LTFRB exec on preventive suspension for 90 days over corruption allegation

MANILA, Philippines — Land Transportation Franchising and Regulation Board (LTFRB) Executive Director Samuel Jardin has been placed under preventive suspension pending investigation for allegedly receiving gifts from a transport operator in exchange for a franchise.

A statement from the Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Thursday said the preventive suspension order was ordered by Secretary Arthur Tugade, after charges were filed against Jardin before DOTr’s administration office.

According to the DOTr, Jardin allegedly “knowingly and willfully” received P4.6 million from a transport operator, in exchange for the promise of granting a franchise.

“[…] Tugade has ordered the preventive suspension of Samuel Jardin, Executive Director of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), over allegations of corruption,” the DOTr’s statement said.

“Along with the order issued yesterday a formal charge has been filed against Jardin for grave misconduct; receiving for personal use a valuable thing in the course of official duties wherein such gift was given in the expectation of receiving favorable treatment; and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service,” the DOTr added.

The preventive suspension is deemed effective immediately and will last for 90 days, the DOTr said.

Aside from this, Jardin is also facing grave misconduct and graft complaints after he allegedly solicited P4.8 million in exchange for the issuance of a Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC), and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service for acting contrary to the ethics of public service.

He was also given the chance to answer the allegations and submit documentary evidence, three days after receiving the complaints.

Should he refuse to answer the complaints filed against him, the DOTr said Jardin is deemed to have waived his rights to air his side and the case will then be decided based on available records according to the DOTR’s investigation.

Jardin — a lawyer by profession — was appointed LTFRB executive director by President Rodrigo Duterte in March 2018, replacing Augustine Vestil.

Prior to his appointment, Jardin was a former congressman representing Cagayan de Oro’s 2nd District. /muf