LTFRB backs probe on suspended official, vows ‘full cooperation’

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Thursday said it supports a full and immediate investigation on Executive Director Samuel Jardin, who was recently placed under 90-day suspension on allegations of bribery.

Transport Secretary Arthur Tugade has ordered the preventive suspension of Jardin after charges were filed against him for allegedly receiving gifts from a transport operator in exchange for a franchise.

READ: LTFRB exec on preventive suspension for 90 days over corruption allegation

“The LTFRB reiterates its full cooperation with the ongoing investigation and supports the call for immediate and full investigation to resolve the charges against him with dispatch,” the agency said in a statement.

“We leave it to DOTr to resolve the matter quickly, objectively and fairly. Kung may sala, kasuhan at tanggalin sa serbisyo. Kung wala naman, dismiss the case on the merits and restore his dignity,” it added.

LTFRB Chairman Martin Delgra III, meanwhile, said he does not “condone corruption” in the agency, noting that he “put so much at stake in having to address the issue since assumption into office.”

“Our unyielding campaign against corruption would come to naught if we are to relax our firm resolve to address corruption in the agency,” LTFRB said.

Aside from preventive suspension, 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 public service ethics. /kga