PR/via Mark Fetalco – PTV News
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has appealed to its traffic enforcers not to lose heart as it is finding ways to grant additional employment benefits, including hazard pay.
Addressing close to 300 traffic enforcers during their formation yesterday, MMDA Chairman Danilo Lim acknowledged their efforts as front-liners manning and managing traffic along EDSA, the metro’s most busy thoroughfare.
“I understand your plight in manning your posts and we have been pushing for the granting of your hazard pay considering the risks you encounter daily,” Lim told traffic enforcers.
Recently, a research team led by Emmanuel Baja of the National Institute for Health-University of the Philippines revealed in its study that traffic enforcers on EDSA face health risks which include high blood pressure and respiratory problems due to exposure to black carbon and heavy metals.
“We shall write a letter to the president (Duterte) to revive the granting of hazard pay. Let’s hope we be given the chance,” added Lim.
During the Commander’s Time, the MMDA chair also took the occasion to remind traffic enforcers about discipline that must start among their ranks.
“Since I took over, we have dismissed a lot because of illegal activities that still happen,” said Lim.
Lim assured traffic enforcers their needs are addressed and well taken cared of as long as they perform their duties well but also vowed to crack a whip against enforcers who engage in corrupt practices.
“Low salary is not an excuse to engage in unscrupulous activities,” he stressed.
According to Lim, the MMDA leadership is doing its part in looking after the welfare of traffic enforcers, citing that medical assistance and insurance support are provided to them.
“Do not lose hope. We have so many plans. Expect more good things to come our way and as front-liners, you are the first who would benefit. Just render excellent public service in the performance of your duties,” said Lim.
To be recalled, the MMDA, in 2017, asked the House of Representatives to pass a law providing hazard pay and salary increase of traffic enforcers.
Lim is also pushing for the casualization of job order enforcers who are not entitled to benefits.
