MMDA suspends towing firm for bike theft

MANILA, Philippines — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has indefinitely suspended a towing firm after one of its tow truck crews was accused of stealing a motorcycle, an official said yesterday.

MMDA general manager Jojo Garcia said one of the owners of six motorcycles impounded at Arrom’s garage in Balintawak, Quezon City filed a complaint against the towing firm for allegedly illegally towing his vehicle.

Based on the complaint, Garcia said the motorcycle should have been impounded at the MMDA’s impounding area in Tumana, Marikina.

 “All towed vehicles must be brought to the MMDA’s impounding site, no other place,” Garcia told reporters in a press conference in Makati City yesterday afternoon.

Garcia said Arrom’s action can be considered as vehicle theft. He encouraged motorists who were victimized by the towing firm to file charges.

He said the MMDA is finalizing the implementing rules and regulations on its plan to professionalize towing services in the metropolis to avoid a repeat of the incident.

Garcia said Arrom was previously suspended but was allowed to operate anew as the MMDA has only a few accredited towing firms to address illegal parking.