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Thirteen workers of the Metro
Manila Develoment Authority (MMDA) were charged with armed robbery in court
after taking the P1.7 million-worth steel Vertical Clearance Barrier of the
Light Rail Transit Authority in Caloocan City last July 22.
The National Bureau of
Investigation (NBI) filed charges before the Prosecutor's Office against
team leader Fernando Flores, heads of the security back up Roberto Lao and
Gil Santos, and ten helpers identified as Rollien Arayata, Gilmar Deloria,
Rhoyleen Arro, Alex Inocando, Rico Vico, Richard Ordales, Perfecto Miguel,
Mark Davie Magaro, Joven Abanes, and Senon Tejada.
The said MMDA workers illegally
removed the sign post using an acetylene welding machine, sledge hammers,
crowbars, and a boom truck.
The dismantled signage was
brought to Arfanc Junk Shop at Central Avenue, Brgy. Culiat, Quezon City for
only P77,000.00.
LRTA Administrator Melquiades
Robles said they informed the MMDA officials of the incident and filed
documented requests for appropriate action.
Robles said they expected that
the MMDA would file administrative and criminal charges against the said
workers but no action was made.
"That's why we were forced to
seek the help of the NBI because of the inaction of the MMDA officials,"
Robles explained.
He also disclosed that MMDA
officials promised to replace the stolen barrier after the incident but up
to now none was delivered.