Ex-LTFRB exec recants allegation

INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — A former Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) official on Wednesday recanted his allegations of rampant corruption in the agency reaching up to Malacañang, saying his statements were “all unintentional and misguided.”

“After a careful reflection and deliberation, it is my honest desire to reiterate whatever allegations may have been said during the press conference on Oct. 9, where the public declaration that was made were all unintentional and misguided,” Jeff Tumbado said in a signed affidavit of recantation dated Oct. 11.

“All of the things said were borne out of impulse, irrational thinking, misjudgment, poor decision-making and was encouraged by some individuals to make the statement which may have added to my confusion and affected my better judgment,” he said.

In a press conference on Monday, Tumbado — a former executive assistant of now suspended LTFRB chair Teofilo Guadiz III — alleged that bribery was rampant at the LTFRB in exchange for “special permits” for public utility vehicle franchises and he would file cases against those officials involved within the week.

Tumbado also alleged that the corruption practices reached the Department of Transportation and even up to Malacañang.

But in his affidavit, he offered an apology to all those who might have been affected by his accusations.

“I have issued this sworn affidavit as a form of public apology in favor of Chairperson Teofilo Guadiz III, Secretary Jaime Bautista of the Department of Transportation and to the Office of the President,” he said.

—FRANCES MANGOSING