By Mae Singuay

The Bacolod City government will be forming a group that will investigate the alleged illegal and corrupt practices at the Bacolod Traffic Authority Office (BTAO).

The Bacolod Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP), during its regular session on Wednesday, October 25, approved Resolution 921 that seeks to investigate alleged irregularities at BTAO.

Councilor Al Victor Espino said they received several reports on the alleged illegal activities by the BTAO.

“There is a need to create an investigative body to inquire into these alleged practices in order to ascertain and apprehend BTAO officials who continuously conduct the said illegal activities,” Espino said.

He added that it is imperative to take measures to combat corruption, promote transparency and uphold the principles of good governance.

The councilor added that the common allegations include the releasing of impounded vehicles beyond the 3:00 p.m. cut off, as the City Treasurer’s Office reports back to the Bacolod City Government Center.

Meanwhile, BTAO head, Police Major Junji Liba said he is not tolerating corruption under his command.

Liba pointed out that he terminated three BTAO traffic enforcers, who were job order casuals, because of alleged corruption.

He added that they are also conducting an investigation into the allegations./MS, WDJ