Grab PH donates body cameras to MMDA to promote transparency

Grab Philippines donated 100 body cameras to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to help promote transparency when apprehending traffic violators.

The gadgets, set to boost the MMDA’s operations, were turned over to the agency during its flag raising ceremony on Monday.

These will be issued to traffic enforcers manning Epifanio Delos Santos Avenue (Edsa) and chokepoint areas in the capital after undergoing training.

“This will go a very long way in terms of making a difference sa pagganap ng tungkulin ng ating mga traffic enforcers (in performing the jobs of our traffic enforcers),” MMDA Chairman Danilo Lim said during the turnover ceremony.

MMDA General Manager Jojo Garcia said the body cameras will make the agency’s operations more transparent and protect both the traffic enforcers and the motorists.

He also shrugged down reservations that the donation would exempt Grab drivers should they commit traffic violations.

“There is no such order. These donated body cameras will show transparency. These gadgets will somehow protect our traffic enforcers when they are cursed or attacked. For the side of the motorists, they will have evidence when they are extorted upon,” Garcia said.

The gadgets, according to Grab Philippines Public Affairs head Leo Gonzales, cost P9,000 each and can be used all throughout the day with its 10 to 12 hours battery life.
Gonzales hoped the donation would help the agency in managing traffic in the metropolis.

“We are one with the MMDA. They need eyes on the road. They need to be visible during any apprehension or any part of their work so there would be no allegations of wrongdoing,” said Gonzales.

The spokesperson told the MMDA not to give special treatment to Grab drivers and apprehend them should they commit any traffic violation.

“We are putting our foot forward in saying that please go ahead. If there is erring TNVS driver under Grab that committed any violation, apprehend them by all means,” Gonzales said.
Garcia warned motorists to think twice in bribing enforcers given the body cameras.

“We are giving warning to all motorists, if you know that you have committed offense, do not attempt to bribe the enforcers. Just receive the ticket when you’re in the wrong,” he said. /vvp